Veteran New York News Anchor Ernie Anastos Dies at 82

Anastos, a fixture on local broadcasts for nearly 50 years, passed away from pneumonia complications.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:49pm

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Ernie Anastos, a legendary New York City television news anchor who worked at WABC, WCBS, FOX 5 and WWOR over his nearly 50-year career, has died at the age of 82 due to complications from pneumonia. Anastos was a familiar presence on local broadcasts and reported on major events like 9/11 and the COVID-19 pandemic, earning over 30 Emmy Awards and nominations during his illustrious journalism career.

Why it matters

Anastos was a beloved and respected figure in New York media who helped shape local news coverage for decades. His passing marks the end of an era for the city's broadcast journalism community.

The details

Anastos first gained recognition in 1978 when he joined WABC-TV's 'Eyewitness News,' where he spent more than a decade anchoring prominent evening broadcasts. Over the years he earned more than 30 Emmy Awards and nominations, including a Lifetime Achievement Emmy and an Edward R. Murrow Award. After stepping away from nightly television news broadcasting in 2019, Anastos hosted a radio program called 'Positively Ernie' on WABC 770 AM.

  • Anastos died early Thursday at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, New York.
  • New York City officially proclaimed March 21 as 'Ernie Anastos Day' in recognition of his contributions to journalism and community service.

The players

Ernie Anastos

A legendary New York City television news anchor who worked at WABC, WCBS, FOX 5 and WWOR over his nearly 50-year career.

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The takeaway

Anastos' passing marks the end of an era for New York's broadcast journalism community, as he was a beloved and respected figure who dedicated his career to informing and uplifting local audiences.