Tributes Pour In for Ernie Anastos, New York's Iconic News Anchor
Ernie Anastos, the legendary news anchor who spent over four decades delivering daily updates to New Yorkers, has passed away at the age of 82. His wife, Kelly, confirmed to multiple media outlets that he died of pneumonia on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
Breaking News and Career Highlights
News of Anastos's death was announced live on air by some of his former stations as a breaking news bulletin, underscoring his significant impact on the broadcasting industry. Throughout his illustrious career, Anastos worked at several prominent stations, including WCBS, Fox 5 New York, WBC, and Channel 9, becoming a familiar and trusted face in households across the region.
Colleagues and Legacy
CBS News New York reporter Tony Aiello paid a heartfelt tribute, stating, "If there was a Mount Rushmore for news anchors in New York, Ernie would be one of the four faces. He worked at four stations and paired well with every co-anchor they ever put him with because he was such a professional." This sentiment echoes the widespread admiration for Anastos's skill, dedication, and ability to connect with viewers and colleagues alike.
Anastos's passing marks the end of an era in New York journalism, with many remembering him not just as a newsreader, but as a pillar of the community who brought integrity and warmth to his broadcasts. His contributions to the field have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations of journalists.
As tributes continue to flood in from fans, friends, and fellow broadcasters, the legacy of Ernie Anastos as a 'Mount Rushmore' figure in newscasting remains firmly cemented in the annals of media history. Further details and memorial arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
