The New York media community is mourning the loss of veteran television journalist Ernie Anastos, who died on March 11, 2026, at the age of 82. His family confirmed that he passed away at Northern Westchester Hospital after complications from pneumonia.
For more than four decades, Anastos was a familiar and trusted voice for viewers across the New York metropolitan area. Known for his calm demeanor and authoritative delivery, he anchored newscasts at several major stations, including WABC‑TV, WCBS‑TV, WWOR‑TV, and WNYW.
Anastos’ career began in the 1970s and quickly established him as a prominent figure in broadcast journalism. Over the years, he earned more than 30 Emmy Awards and nominations, including a Lifetime Achievement Emmy and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in reporting. His steady presence helped guide viewers through major events, from the September 11 attacks to global moments such as the death of Princess Diana and the challenges of the COVID‑19 pandemic.
Colleagues and viewers have shared tributes celebrating both his professionalism and his mentorship. Former co-anchor Rosanna Scotto described him as a journalist who combined fairness with compassion, noting his influence on younger reporters entering the field.
Beyond television, Anastos also worked in radio, authored books, and operated a media company, broadening his impact on the industry. As one of the first prominent Greek-American anchors in a major U.S. market, he also became a source of pride for many communities in New York.
He is survived by his wife, Kelly, as well as their children and grandchildren. For generations of viewers, Ernie Anastos represented reliability and calm during times of uncertainty—qualities that helped define an era of New York broadcasting and leave a lasting legacy in American journalism.