The legendary broadcaster passed away on March 12, 2026, at Northern Westchester Hospital in New York due to pneumonia, according to his family.
For more than four decades, Anastos served as a trusted voice for millions of viewers across the New York metropolitan area, earning a reputation for professionalism, warmth, and unwavering commitment to journalism.
A Career That Defined New York Television
Born on July 12, 1943, in Nashua, New Hampshire, Ernie Anastos began his career in broadcasting as a teenager and later transitioned into television journalism in the mid-1970s.
He became a major figure in New York media, anchoring at several of the city’s top stations, including WABC-TV, WCBS-TV, WWOR-TV, and WNYW Fox 5.
Anastos was widely admired for his calm and authoritative presence on air. Over the years he covered many of the most significant events in modern American history, including:
The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
The death of John Lennon
The passing of Princess Diana and John F. Kennedy Jr.
The COVID-19 pandemic
His reporting helped shape how generations of New Yorkers understood major world and local events.
Awards and Achievements
During his remarkable career, Anastos received more than 30 Emmy Awards and nominations, including a Lifetime Achievement Emmy and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in broadcast journalism.
In recognition of his contributions to the city, New York officially declared March 21 as “Ernie Anastos Day” in 2017.
Beyond television, he hosted the radio program “Positively Ernie” on 77WABC, focusing on uplifting stories and inspiring conversations.
Tributes from colleagues and public figures quickly poured in after news of his passing. Fellow journalists described him as a mentor, role model, and one of the “Mount Rushmore” figures of New York news broadcasting.
Former co-anchor Rosanna Scotto remembered him as a generous mentor who taught younger reporters how to remain calm and confident on air.
Many viewers also recalled his trademark optimism and warm smile, which made him a beloved presence in homes across the tri-state area for decades.
Family and Legacy
Ernie Anastos is survived by his wife Kelly, their two children, Philip and Nina, and four grandchildren.
His legacy extends far beyond awards and ratings. For millions of viewers, he represented a gold standard of trustworthy journalism and integrity in broadcasting.
Even after stepping away from daily television news, Anastos continued to advocate for truth, positivity, and responsible journalism — values that defined his entire career.
Ernie Anastos leaves behind a lasting imprint on American broadcast journalism and a legacy that will be remembered in New York newsrooms for generations.