Ernie Anastos Obituary – Death: Ernie Anastos, the legendary New York television news anchor known for decades of trusted reporting on WABC-TV and other major stations, has died at the age of 82, leaving the city’s journalism community mourning the loss of one of its most recognizable voices.
Anastos passed away in March 2026 after suffering from pneumonia while hospitalized at Northern Westchester Hospital, according to family members.
His death marks the end of a remarkable broadcasting career that spanned nearly five decades in New York media.
Born July 12, 1943, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Ernie Anastos built a reputation as one of the most respected figures in American television journalism. After graduating from Northeastern University, he began his career in radio before transitioning to television and eventually becoming a familiar face in the nation’s largest media market.
Anastos joined WABC-TV in 1978, anchoring the station’s 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts for more than a decade and helping shape the era of Eyewitness News. Over the years he also served as an anchor at several major New York stations, including WCBS-TV, WWOR-TV, and WNYW-TV (FOX 5), becoming one of the few journalists to work prominently at all of the city’s major networks.
Throughout his career, Anastos reported on some of the most significant events in modern history, including the September 11 attacks and the death of John Lennon in 1980. His calm delivery and dedication to factual reporting made him a trusted presence in millions of homes across the New York metropolitan area.
Widely admired for his professionalism and integrity, Anastos earned more than 30 Emmy Awards and nominations during his career, including a Lifetime Emmy Award and recognition from the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame.
In later years, he continued his work in media as the host of the radio program “Positively Ernie” on WABC Radio, where he shared uplifting stories and interviews that reflected his optimistic approach to journalism.
Colleagues and friends across the broadcasting industry have paid tribute to Anastos as a mentor, role model, and compassionate professional who helped shape generations of journalists. Many described him as the “heart of the newsroom” and praised his commitment to truth and fairness in reporting.
Ernie Anastos is survived by his wife, Kelly Anastos, and their family. His legacy as one of New York City’s most influential and respected news anchors will continue to live on through the many journalists he inspired and the millions of viewers who trusted his voice for decades.
