Ernie Anastos, Beloved NYC News Anchor, Dies at 82

Ernie Anastos, a name synonymous with Latest York City news for generations, has died at the age of 82. The veteran broadcaster passed away early Thursday morning at Northern Westchester Hospital, his wife Kelly confirmed, after a battle with pneumonia. Anastos’s career spanned decades and multiple stations, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s media landscape.

For many New Yorkers, Anastos was the news. He anchored for WCBS, WABC, Fox 5 and Channel 9, becoming a familiar face and trusted voice during pivotal moments in the city’s history. His colleagues remember a professional who elevated the craft, but also possessed a rare ability to connect with viewers and bring a touch of levity to even the most serious stories.

A Pro’s Pro: Anastos’s Broadcast Journey

Anastos’s impact wasn’t just about longevity; it was about versatility. CBS News New York’s Tony Aiello remarked that if a “Mount Rushmore for news anchors in New York” existed, Anastos would undoubtedly be among the faces carved into it. He seamlessly transitioned between stations, consistently delivering the news with a polished style and a commanding presence. He earned over 30 Emmy Awards throughout his career, a testament to his dedication and skill. CBS News New York detailed the breadth of his accolades.

But beyond the awards and the airtime, Anastos was known for his mentorship. CBS News New York’s Marcia Kramer recalled her early days transitioning from print journalism to television, and how Anastos eased her fears with a playful, yet effective, approach. “He would hand me a rose, throw a pencil at me, one time, he threw a paperclip at me. All of it to make me believe that I was not gonna die and fall on the floor,” Kramer shared. This anecdote speaks to a generosity of spirit and a willingness to help colleagues navigate the pressures of live television.

More Than Just a Newsman: Style and Optimism

Anastos wasn’t just a deliverer of information; he was a personality. Jennifer McLogan of CBS News New York remembered him as always impeccably dressed, and constantly reaching out to colleagues and friends with invitations to lunch. “Always dressed to the Ts, embracing us all always with calls and messages, ‘Let’s have lunch.’ He had fans everywhere,” she said. This attention to detail extended to his on-air presence, setting a standard for elegance and professionalism.

In recent years, Anastos channeled his optimistic outlook into a segment called “Positively Ernie,” focusing on uplifting stories and solutions. This initiative, highlighted by Times Now News, reflected a core belief in finding the good even amidst challenging times. He was, as many colleagues described, a genuinely positive force in a profession often defined by negativity.

Reporting Through History

Anastos’s career coincided with some of the most significant events in recent history. He was on the air during the September 11th attacks, providing crucial information and a steady presence during a time of immense grief and uncertainty. He also covered the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating the complexities of reporting on a public health crisis. His career also included interviews with prominent figures like Jimmy Carter, George Bush, and Bill Clinton, solidifying his status as a respected journalist. Yahoo Entertainment noted these landmark moments.

He was also a proud son of the New York Greek community, a connection that resonated deeply with viewers. Aiello noted, “You couldn’t go into a Greek diner anywhere in New York for a generation and not see a picture of a smiling Ernie Anastos hanging there behind the cashier. He was like the patron saint of the Greek diners, looking down on you and giving you a little bit of a blessing with that million-watt smile.”

A Lasting Legacy

The outpouring of grief from colleagues and fans alike underscores the profound impact Anastos had on the New York media landscape. Former WABC news anchor Rose Ann Scamardella summed it up beautifully: “We laughed. Lots of time, we laughed inappropriately on the air. He was special. He is special. He will always be special in my heart.”

Anastos’s final social media post, just weeks before his death, called for “truth in journalism,” a fitting sentiment from a broadcaster who dedicated his life to informing and connecting with the public. His legacy extends beyond the headlines and the awards; it lies in the countless lives he touched and the standard of excellence he set for those who followed in his footsteps.

His wife, Kelly Anastos, of more than 50 years, confirmed his passing. Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced.