Ernie Anastos, the legendary American television news anchor who spent more than four decades reporting and anchoring in New York City, is remembered for his calm delivery and trusted presence. Anastos covered major events such as the September 11 attacks and earned more than 30 Emmy Awards and nominations, including a Lifetime Emmy Award. He became one of the most recognizable faces in local journalism, anchoring the news at ABC7 WABC-TV; CBS2 WCBS-TV; Channel 9 WWOR-TV; and FOX 5 WNYW-TV.

Anastos spent the final chapter of his television career at FOX 5 New York, where he served as the longtime lead anchor for the station’s evening newscasts. He signed off from the anchor desk in June 2019 after nearly two decades at the station and more than 40 years in broadcasting. Anastos died today at the age of 82. He was truly a beloved and trusted figure in New York TV News broadcasting.

Today, we're remembering Ernie Anastos. The New York news icon has died at the age of 82. Anastos spent 11 years as an anchor at Eyewitness News.https://t.co/QYijTWWoA8 pic.twitter.com/yUtWYn4pRl

— Eyewitness News (@ABC7NY) March 12, 2026

These are some very wise words!

Very sad to hear about the passing of Ernie Anastos. I grew up watching him anchor Eyewitness News on WABC-7, then worked alongside Ernie at WCBS-2 for five years. Ernie was generous with advice & once told me the only person you can trust in this business is your contract! RIP pic.twitter.com/fUqZKrRmvL

— Brendan Keefe – Atlanta News First (@BrendanKeefe) March 12, 2026

---