NR GLOBAL NEWS
Hollywood Mourns the Loss of KTLA Icon Sam Rubin
Sam Rubin Remembered: Hollywood Icon Dies at 64
Sam Rubin, a beloved entertainment reporter who graced KTLA’s airwaves for over three decades, passed away unexpectedly on Friday at his home. Rubin, a fixture in Los Angeles entertainment reporting, was 64 years old.
A Local News Legend
Rubin’s death was attributed to a heart attack. He was last seen on KTLA on May 9th. His absence on the May 10th broadcast of “KTLA Morning News” sparked concern among colleagues who reported he showed no signs of illness the day prior.
Eulogies poured in from across the entertainment industry, highlighting Rubin’s immense contributions to local news and his warm, engaging personality. Perry Sook, CEO of Nexstar Broadcasting Group which owns KTLA, called Rubin an “icon” for the region and the industry. Sook offered his condolences to Rubin’s family and the KTLA team, stating Rubin would be deeply missed.
KTLA Pays Tribute to a Star
KTLA, a pioneering television station and the first commercial broadcaster on the West Coast expressed their profound grief at the loss of Rubin, who became synonymous with the station’s identity. Frank Buckley, a KTLA news anchor, became emotional while reporting Rubin’s passing on-air Friday afternoon.
In a social media post, KTLA described Rubin as a “giant” in the local news and entertainment industry. They praised his infectious laugh, charm, and genuine care for everyone he met. The post also highlighted Rubin’s devotion to his family, especially his wife and four children.
A Fan’s Perspective in the Heart of Hollywood
Rubin’s reporting extended beyond celebrity interviews and red carpets. He delved into the inner workings of Hollywood, offering a unique perspective – that of a fan in awe of the industry’s glitz and glamour. His genuine enthusiasm resonated with viewers.
Publicists and actors alike expressed their sorrow at Rubin’s passing. Publicist Jamie Gruttemeyer Symonds described the loss as feeling like a family friend had passed. Actress Yvette Nicole Brown echoed this sentiment, calling Rubin a friend and cherishing the times she appeared on KTLA. Actor Kiefer Sutherland also shared a social media post remembering Rubin’s kindness and ever-present excitement for Hollywood.
Tributes Pour in From the A-List
The news of Rubin’s death sent shockwaves through Hollywood, with a multitude of actors expressing their grief and fond memories. Dave Foley, Marlee Matlin, Jerry O’Connell, Paul Feig, Ben Stiller, Greg Grunberg, and many more shared stories about Rubin’s kindness and professionalism.
Ben Stiller, in a social media post, described Rubin as a consummate professional and a cherished colleague. Stiller fondly remembered his first interview with Rubin and highlighted Rubin’s ability to make everyone feel comfortable.
Beyond the KTLA Spotlight
Rubin’s career extended far beyond anchoring for KTLA. His production company, SRE, Inc., produced a significant volume of television programming, including red-carpet shows and talk show episodes. He was also a co-founder of the Critics Choice Association, an organization recognizing excellence in film and television. The Critics Choice Association lauded Rubin’s influence, calling him a “guiding force.”
