Legendary NYC News Anchor Ernie Anastos Dies at 82

The Emmy-winning journalist was a celebrated host and creator of 'Positively America'.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:39am

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Longtime television news anchor, journalist, and author Ernie Anastos, best known as one of the most recognizable faces in New York City local news for decades, has died at age 82 of pneumonia. Anastos anchored at several flagship stations, including ABC 7, CBS 2, and Fox 5, and covered major national and local events over a career spanning more than 40 years.

Why it matters

Anastos was a trusted source of news for many years and was a steady presence that made him a familiar and reassuring figure for viewers across New York. His passing marks the end of an era for local journalism in the city.

The details

CBS reports Anastos died early Thursday morning at Northern Westchester Hospital. He was a major figure in New York television news, anchoring at several flagship stations and covering major events like the September 11 attacks and the coronavirus pandemic. Anastos received more than 30 Emmy Awards and nominations during his career and was honored with a Lifetime Emmy Award.

  • Anastos died on March 12, 2026.

The players

Ernie Anastos

A legendary New York City news anchor who had a career spanning more than 40 years, anchoring at several flagship stations and covering major national and local events. He received over 30 Emmy Awards and was honored with a Lifetime Emmy Award.

Bill Ritter

An Eyewitness News anchor who said Anastos was "something unique" and "trusted" by viewers, and that "reporting the news – reporting truth and facts – that's what Ernie believed in."

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What they’re saying

“He was something unique, and no matter your politics, Ernie was trusted. Reporting the news – reporting truth and facts – that's what Ernie believed in.”

— Bill Ritter, Eyewitness News anchor (ABC 7)

“Truth is so important in life. It gives us a sense of order and decency. We need truth for our relationships, with our family, with our friends in the workplace, and certainly in the political world. It brings a sense of order to us, and we learn discipline from it. We have to teach truth in our homes, in our schools, wherever we have the opportunity. I'm a big fan.”

— Ernie Anastos (Facebook)

The takeaway

Ernie Anastos' passing marks the end of an era for local journalism in New York City, as he was a trusted and familiar figure for viewers across the city for over four decades. His commitment to reporting the truth and facts made him a respected and admired news anchor, and his legacy will continue to inspire journalists and news consumers alike.