Sam Rubin: Famous Longtime KTLA Entertainment Reporter and Anchor Sam Rubin Died At 84 where he died of a heart attack on Friday. Over the news, KTLA Entertainment released the statement on X (formerly Twitter). “KTLA 5 is profoundly heartbroken to share the news of the passing of Sam Rubin. Sam was not just a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world; he was a beloved fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. His infectious laugh, unwavering charm, and genuinely caring personality touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sam was a devoted husband and father, roles he cherished above all else. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Sam’s family during this incredibly difficult time. The void he leaves behind is immeasurable, and he will be dearly missed by all who loved him.”Sam Rubin’s legacy as a beloved and influential entertainment reporter remains significant. His ability to connect with celebrities and viewers alike, combined with his commitment to his craft. His contributions to entertainment journalism and his personable approach will be remembered fondly by colleagues, viewers, and the many stars he interviewed throughout his career.
Sam Rubin
Who Is Sam Rubin?
Sam Rubin (February 16, 1960 – May 10, 2024) was an American journalist known for his extensive career as an entertainment reporter for KTLA Morning News and as a host of various entertainment talk shows and specials. Over more than three decades, Rubin became a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, interviewing numerous Hollywood stars and co-authoring two biographies on notable public figures.
Career
Early Career
Sam Rubin was born in San Diego, California, on February 16, 1960. He attended high school in Los Angeles and graduated from Occidental College in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies and Rhetoric. In the 1980s, Rubin began his career as an entertainment reporter for Group W, the National Enquirer, and Fox Entertainment News. His early work included hosting hourly entertainment newsbreaks for the Movietime cable channel starting in 1988.
KTLA
Rubin joined KTLA in 1991, just two months after the launch of the station’s morning news program, KTLA Morning News. Initially struggling with ratings, the show saw a shift in format towards a more relaxed style with an increase in celebrity interviews, coinciding with Rubin’s arrival. Ray Richmond of The Orange County Register credited Rubin as “the missing piece” that completed the original cast.
Known for his humour and frequent jokes about movies and TV, Rubin occasionally made remarks that irked colleagues and management. Notably, in 1993, he joked about Hal Fishman, a main evening news anchor, which led to an apology and reprimand after Fishman threatened to leave the station. Rubin also faced suspensions in 1998, 2002, and 2004 for various comments made about KTLA personnel and other industry figures.
Rubin was integral to several KTLA programs, including The Morning Show in 1993 and The Live Show in 1998. He also hosted and produced award show specials, enhancing his reputation as a key entertainment correspondent. Despite some on-air controversies, Rubin’s easygoing manner and positive interview style made him a favourite among Hollywood publicists and celebrities alike.
In 2014, Rubin made headlines for mistakenly confusing Samuel L. Jackson with Laurence Fishburne during a live interview, leading to an on-air apology after Jackson’s pointed response.
Other Television Programs
Outside of KTLA, Rubin co-hosted the syndicated talk show Scoop with Sam and Dorothy in 1996, which aimed to rival Live with Regis and Kathie Lee but was cancelled after three months due to low ratings. He also hosted Dailies on the Reelz Channel starting in 2006 and Hollywood Uncensored with Sam Rubin from 2010 to 2012, which produced 120 episodes.
Industry Involvement
Rubin was a founding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, which organizes the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards. His efforts helped the awards gain broader visibility, landing on broadcast TV in 2004. He hosted the 18th edition of the event in 2013. Rubin’s work earned him several awards, including a Golden Mike Award for best entertainment reporter and a lifetime achievement award from the Los Angeles Press Club in 2010. He also made cameo appearances in films like Wes Craven’s New Nightmare (1994) and America’s Sweethearts (2001).
Personal Life
Sam Rubin was married to Leslie Gale Shuman, and they had four children together. Rubin’s family life was a significant part of his identity, and he cherished his roles as a husband and father. On May 10, 2024, Rubin passed away from a heart attack at his home in Los Angeles. His final television appearance was the day before his death.
Books
Rubin, Sam; Richard Taylor (1989). Mia Farrow: Flower Child, Madonna, Muse. New York: 2M Communications; St. Martin’s Press. ISBN 9780312029500.
Taylor, Richard; Sam Rubin (1990). Jackie: A Lasting Impression. New York: St. Martin’s Press. ISBN 9780312029500.
Who was Sam Rubin?
Sam Rubin was an American journalist renowned for his role as the entertainment reporter for KTLA Morning News. He also hosted various entertainment talk shows and specials and co-authored two biographies. His career spanned over thirty years, during which he interviewed numerous Hollywood stars.
When and where was Sam Rubin born?
Sam Rubin was born on February 16, 1960, in San Diego, California.
What books did Sam Rubin co-author?
Sam Rubin co-authored two biographies: “Mia Farrow: Flower Child, Madonna, Muse” and “Jackie: A Lasting Impression.”
