Ernie Anastos, a legendary NYC newscaster, has died. He was 82 years old.<\/p>\n
CBS News<\/a> reported that his wife of more than 50 years, Kelly Anastos, confirmed her husband\u2019s death this morning, March 12, adding the cause of death was pneumonia. Anastos passed away at Northern Westchester Hospital.<\/p>\n Per the news source, Anastos worked at WCBS, WABC, Fox 5, and Channel 9. over the course of his decades-career, the news icon earned more than 30 Emmy Awards<\/a>.<\/p>\n Known for always having an optimistic dispostion, the broadcaster developed Positively Earnie<\/a>, a program that focused on the big stories of the day, but put a positive spin on news, entertainment, and sports headlines and offered solutions.<\/p>\n Anastos\u2019 last message on social media, posted March 3, called for truth in journalism.<\/p>\n “Now more than ever we need to promote and protect the truth!” the post’s caption read.<\/p>\n Tributes for Ernie Anastos<\/p>\n “Ernie was beloved. He was always positive,” CBS<\/a> News shared. “He was one of the most optimistic people you could ever know. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family.”<\/p>\n “His voice, integrity, and lasting impact on New York journalism will never be forgotten,” Fox5NY<\/a> shared.<\/p>\n “The world has lost a light in Ernie Anastos. \ud83d\udcab Ernie was an icon. Shaped New York Television News into what it is today. Yet he was always kind and positive. And made sure to bring that positive angel to his newscast. We would have deep conversations in his office about my interests outside of sports and television broadcasting. He always encouraged me to continue my education<\/a> on things outside of my career. See my stories for some special moments that I will remember most about Ernie. \ud83d\ude4f\ud83c\udffc,” newscaster Tina Cervasio<\/a> shared.<\/p>\n “I know I speak for everyone at Fox 5 when I say I am devastated to learn of the passing of broadcasting legend Ernie Anastos. I am happy to report he was the most wonderful friend and colleague anyone could ever hope to work beside. An absolute legend. But also a wonderful person who earned viewer\u2019s trust over generations<\/a> reporting on all the major stories impacting New York City and the world. He truly was an icon. Sending condolences to his family and all who came to view him as a trusted source of news,” news personality Steve Lacy<\/a> wrote.<\/p>\n \ud83c\udfac SIGN UP for Parade\u2019s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox<\/a> \ud83c\udfac<\/p>\n Related: Celebrated Author Dies From Stroke \u2014 Tributes Pour In<\/a><\/p>\n This story was originally published by Parade<\/a> on Mar 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the News<\/a> section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.<\/a><\/p>\n