Trending Now - Beloved NYC News Anchor Ernie Anastos Passes Away at 82
WHO:
Ernie Anastos graduated from Northeastern University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology.
Anastos holds Honorary Doctorate degrees from Marist College, New York Institute of Technology, Manhattanville College, Curry College, and Sacred Heart University.
Eyewitness News anchor Bill Ritter stated, "He was something unique and no matter your politics - Ernie was trusted. Reporting the news - reporting truth and facts - that's what Ernie believed in."
Ernie Anastos, legendary New York City television news anchor
Kelly Anastos, wife of Ernie Anastos
Tony Aiello, CBS News New York correspondent
Marcia Kramer, CBS News New York correspondent
Jennifer McLogan, CBS News New York correspondent
Thomas Busch, CBS News New York correspondent
Rose Ann Scamardella, former WABC news anchor
Bill Ritter, Eyewitness News anchor
WHAT:
Anastos was a beloved presence in the Tri-State area for almost 50 years.
He was a fixture at community events with a thriving social-media presence.
Ernie Anastos passed away at the age of 82.
He died of pneumonia.
Anastos won more than 30 Emmy Awards throughout his career.
He spent 11 years as an anchor at WABC-TV from 1978 to 1989.
Anastos hosted a show called "Positively Ernie" on WABC 770 AM.
He received a Lifetime Emmy Award.
Anastos covered major stories including the World Trade Center attacks and the coronavirus pandemic.
His final Facebook post was published on March 3rd, 2026.
WHERE:
Northern Westchester Hospital, where Anastos died
New York City, where Anastos worked at various television stations including WCBS, WABC, WWOR, and WNYW
Daily News Building in Manhattan, featured in his final Facebook post
WHEN:
Anastos most recently appeared on WABC-TV in a 2020 documentary about the death of John Lennon.
Anastos died on March 12th, 2026.
He began anchoring at WABC-TV in 1978 and left in 1989.
He was anchoring on December 8th, 1980, when WABC-TV confirmed the death of John Lennon.
His last Facebook post was on March 3rd, 2026.
WHY:
Anastos was known for his positive demeanor and passion for journalism.
HOW:
Anastos was known for always being ready with a smile, pleasant small talk, and dollops of wisdom to delight his many fans.
Anastos was recognized for his ability to connect with co-anchors and audiences, often using humor and personal touches to create a welcoming atmosphere in the newsroom.
(UPDATED March 13, 2026 13:20 UTC)
Ernie Anastos, a beloved figure in the Tri-State area for nearly 50 years, graduated from Northeastern University with a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and held several honorary doctorates from various institutions. Known for his warm smile and engaging personality, Anastos was a trusted news anchor whose commitment to reporting truth resonated with many, as noted by Eyewitness News anchor Bill Ritter. His most recent appearance was in a 2020 documentary on WABC-TV about the death of John Lennon, showcasing his enduring connection to the community he served.
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(UPDATED March 13, 2026 05:26 UTC)
Ernie Anastos, the legendary New York City television news anchor, passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 82 due to pneumonia. Known for his positive demeanor and passion for journalism, Anastos won over 30 Emmy Awards throughout his career, including a Lifetime Emmy Award, and he covered significant events like the World Trade Center attacks and the coronavirus pandemic. He spent 11 years anchoring at WABC-TV, where he famously confirmed the death of John Lennon live on air, and his final Facebook post was shared just days before his passing on March 3.