Sam Rubin, a beloved entertainment anchor who had been with KTLA since 1991, has passed away at the age of 64. The reporter died on Friday from a heart attack, as confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter. According to TMZ, Rubin suffered the heart attack after completing his daily Hollywood news segment on the channel.
KTLA 5 expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Sam Rubin, describing him as a significant figure in the local news industry and the entertainment world. Rubin was a familiar face on Los Angeles morning television for many years, known for his infectious laugh, charm, and caring personality that endeared him to all who knew him. He was a devoted husband and father, roles that he treasured deeply.
Perry Sook, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Nexstar, a majority owner of KTLA, also offered condolences following Rubin's passing. Sook hailed Rubin as an icon in Los Angeles and the entertainment industry, emphasizing his status as a beloved member of the Nexstar Nation.
For entertainment enthusiasts in Los Angeles, Rubin was a fixture in the industry, frequently reporting from red carpet events and serving as the face of showbiz on KTLA Channel 5. He hosted various programs, including Live From the Academy Awards and his own celebrity talk show, Hollywood Uncensored. Rubin was known for his friendly demeanor and willingness to ask tough questions in an industry often dismissed as superficial.
Throughout his career, Rubin garnered multiple Emmy awards and accolades, including the Golden Mike Award for best entertainment reporter and a lifetime achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association. He was recognized for his integrity in broadcast journalism by the National Hispanic Media Coalition and received the Impact Award in 2013.
In addition to his work at KTLA, Rubin owned a television production company, SRE, Inc., which produced a variety of broadcast and cable programs, including his red carpet shows and Hollywood Uncensored. He also co-authored biographies on Jacqueline Onassis and Mia Farrow and was a founding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association.
Sam Rubin is survived by his wife, Leslie, and their three children. His passing marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry and leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him.
