Full Breakdown
Remembering Ernie Anastos: A Legacy in New York Journalism
3/17/2026, 3:43:05 PM
Core Event: Passing of a Broadcasting Icon
Ernie Anastos, a legendary television news anchor in New York City, passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 82 due to pneumonia. His death marks the end of a significant era in local broadcasting, where he was a trusted voice for nearly five decades.
Background & Context: A Storied Career
Anastos began his journalism career in the 1970s, working at various stations including WRKO and WROR in Boston, and later at WPRI-TV in Providence, Rhode Island. He became a prominent figure in New York television, anchoring at WABC-TV from 1978 to 1989, and later at WCBS, WWOR, and WNYW. Throughout his career, Anastos earned over 30 Emmy Awards and was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award for his contributions to broadcast journalism. He was also the first Greek-American news anchor in the United States, celebrated for his professionalism and positivity.
Key Figures & Groups: Community and Family
Anastos was not only a journalist but also a devoted family man, married to Kelly Anastos, with whom he had two children and four grandchildren. He was deeply connected to his Greek heritage and was an active member of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in New Rochelle, where he was remembered fondly by parishioners.
Official Statements & Responses
Following his passing, tributes poured in from colleagues and community members. Tony Aiello, a reporter for CBS News New York, remarked, “If there was a Mount Rushmore for news anchors in New York, Ernie would be one of the four faces.” Businessman John Catsimatidis added, “He was tired of bad news and he would only want to do good news.” The Fox 5 network expressed profound sadness over his death, stating, “His voice, integrity, and lasting impact on New York journalism will never be forgotten.”
Criticism & Opposition: A Trusted Voice
In a media landscape often characterized by polarization, Anastos was noted for his ability to command trust across political lines. Eyewitness News anchor Bill Ritter highlighted this sentiment, stating, “Reporting the news – reporting truth and facts – that’s what Ernie believed in.” This commitment to truth was evident in his final social media messages, where he emphasized the importance of promoting and protecting the truth.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If there was a Mount Rushmore for news anchors in New York, Ernie would be one of the four faces,” — Tony Aiello, CBS News New York Reporter
- “He had a smile on his face always. He was tired of bad news and he would only want to do good news,” — John Catsimatidis, Businessman
- “Now more than ever we need to promote and protect the truth!” — Ernie Anastos, Final Social Media Post
What's Next: Funeral Arrangements
Anastos' funeral is scheduled to take place at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church on March 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. His passing has left a significant void in the New York broadcasting community, and many are expected to pay their respects.
Ernie Anastos will be remembered not only for his extensive career in journalism but also for his unwavering commitment to truth and positivity, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of many New Yorkers.
