LOS ANGELES (CNS) – Sam Rubin, one of the most recognizable and likeable entertainment reporters in the business and a fixture on the KTLA Morning News since 1991, died Friday at age 64.
KTLA Morning News anchor Frank Buckley confirmed the news on the air early Friday afternoon, his voice trembling and fighting back tears as he spoke about the death of his friend and co-worker.
“Our hearts, as you can imagine, are broken,” Buckley said. “Quite simply, Sam was KTLA. From his time on the KTLA5 Morning News to the many awards shows and other shows that he hosted, his laugh, his charm, most caring personality. To all of us he shred his mornings with on television and to those he worked with behind the scenes at KTLA, we will not forget him.”
Buckley, who paused to battle back tears as he spoke, added, “The role that he cherished most was husband and father.” Rubin is survived by his wife Leslie and four children.
“This is the moment when Sam would know exactly what to say,” Buckley said. “These are the kinds of stories that he excelled in, and say the right things about someone and put someone’s life into perspective.
“… This station is filled with great sadness. A shock to all of us. He was here yesterday with all of us and then called in sick and then we learned the news this afternoon. So we’re not really sure what the circumstances are. … That’s what we know at this point, is that Sammy is gone.”
TMZ reported that Rubin suffered a fatal heart attack Friday morning. A KTLA source told Variety that Rubin died at his home in Brentwood.
“Sam lived life to the fullest,” Buckley said. “We don’t know exactly what happened but we know that it was sudden because he was here yesterday.”
KTLA reporter/anchor Eric Spillman, also a longtime fixture at the station, called into the KTLA afternoon newscast and said, “I just can’t believe that we’re reporting this. It is such a shock.”
“Personally he was one of my best friends,” Spillman said. “We worked together every day for 33 years.”
KTLA technology reporter Rich DeMuro wrote on X that he is “in absolute shock.” He posted a picture of himself with Rubin and wrote, “Thinking the most of your family right now. So sorry. Morning news in Hollywood will never be the same without you.”
KTLA posted on X: “KTLA5 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.”
During his celebrated career, Rubin — an Occidental College graduate – – collected multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Mike and Los Angeles Press Club awards for best entertainment reporter, as well as a lifetime achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association.
He was also a founding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, the organization behind the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards, an event Rubin hosted in 2013.
Rubin was also the owner of the SRE Inc. television production company, which according to his KTLA biography, has produced more than 200 hours of broadcast and cable programming, including the talk show “Hollywood Uncensored” and the “Live From” red carpet shows.
He was also known for his charitable efforts, annually promoting the Bay to Bay bike ride from Orange County to San Diego to raise funds for multiple sclerosis research.
Rubin was known for his easy-going interview style, which remained consisted whether talking to Hollywood’s biggest veteran stars or little-known up-and-coming performers.
“He made you feel special every single time, and I am not the only person who felt that warmth every time they sat down at your desk,” actor Henry Winkler told KTLA in a phone call from Pittsburgh. “… He made every human being feel so special and that got them to open up like a flower. … He was interested in you as a professional and he was interested in you as a human being.”
Winkler added, “He will just be so missed. I’m just overwhelmed.”
Director Paul Feig, whose credits include “Bridesmaids” and “The Heat,” wrote on X that he was “devastated by this news.”
“I truly loved Sam, who was so supportive of me and the industry in general,” Feig wrote. “He was the best. I can’t quite process him being gone. Sending so much love to his family and friends. So sad. RIP Sam. Love you, pal.”
Oscar winner Octavia Spencer wrote, “So sad to learn what we’ve lost Sam Rubin. It was always a pleasure to see him and to be in his presence. My condolences to his family and fans.”
Actor Eric Stonestreet (“Modern Family”) wrote, “I always enjoyed my time with Sam. Rest in Peace, Sir.”
Actress Joely Fisher added, “This is a shocking loss!!! RIP to my friend of so many years,” to which “Star Wars” actor Mark Hamill added, “Gone way too soon.”
Actor Ben Stiller wrote, “So sad and sorry to hear of Sam Rubin’s passing. Consummate pro. I did my first interview with him in something like ’93, and countless times over the years. He loved actors and movies. He made everyone feel comfortable and it was always fun and easy. He was an institution. We have lost him way too soon. Sending love to his family.”
Actor Greg Grunberg (“Alias,” “Heroes”) wrote, “I am numb and shocked at the news of my friend Sam Rubin passing. He cared about everyone that he met and always took the time to smile and ask about family and was the best at what he did. I can’t believe this news. So devastating and sad. Thinking about his beautiful family right now.”
Actor Michael McKean called Rubin a “genuinely good guy, and really the only game in town.”
Actress Morgan Fairchild wrote, “Sam was the sweetest, nicest guy in town!! Always kind & supportive! My last interview with him was for Matthew Perry’s death. I always went out of my way if he wanted an interview (because) he was just such a great guy! Beloved by all.”
The Critics Choice Awards issued a statement saying, “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.”
The Los Angeles Press Club said in a statement that the “Los Angeles journalism community has lost one of its shining stars. Entertainment reporting will not be the same without his distinctive voice.”