Sad sad news: Sam Rubin, a legend in Los Angeles for Hollywood TV reporting, died today of a heart attack. He was 64.
Sam was beloved and kind of a dean of the craft on the west coast. There was no one else like him. Our Leah Sydney says: “I can’t imagine anyone more irreplaceable.”
Sam was a leader and an important part of the Broadcast Critics group which became the Critics Choice. He was generous and influential. He was also brave. He was no acquiescent junket guy. In a historic interview, he took on Mel Gibson live, confronting him about his antisemitic comments. I always told him how much I admired him for doing that.
He was serious, but also a lot of fun on TV. The reason he lasted so long was by keeping a sense of humor. This would have been the only way to survive dealing with the Hollywood machine.
KTLA said in a post: “KTLA 5 is profoundly saddened to report the death of Sam Rubin. Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world, and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him. Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most. Our thoughts are with Sam’s family during this difficult time.”
The Critics Choice Association said in a statement: “The Critics Choice Association is devastated by the sudden loss of our dear friend Sam Rubin, a longtime member of our Board of Directors and a guiding force throughout our 30-year history.
“Sam’s generous spirit, unfailing good humor and deep knowledge of “Hollywood” made him a legend in the entertainment business and a trusted friend to millions of viewers – and to hundreds of stars who relaxed in easy conversation with him on his set at KTLA and on countless Red Carpets.
“As we absorb the shock of this terrible loss, our hearts go out to his wife and children. May his memory be a blessing.”
Condolences to his family, his friends, co-workers. Quite a shock.
Did you know @SamOnTV was once a costar of @BetteMidler's? pic.twitter.com/NHIuFiSKos
— KTLA Entertainment (@ktlaENT) May 8, 2024
