Los Angeles television station KTLA paid tribute to Rubin, calling him a “giant of the local news industry.”
by Dylan Donnelly, news reporter
Saturday 11 May 2024 11:59, UK
Sam Rubin, a veteran entertainment reporter from California who also worked for ITV, has died at the age of 64.
Los Angeles television station KTLA paid tribute to the reporter, calling him a “giant of the local news industry.”
“His laughter, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him,” the station added.
“Sam was a loving husband and father, the roles he cherished most.”
The veteran American journalist has been “regularly live” on ITV's This Morning for many years.
This Morning has announced that it will air a tribute to Rubin on Monday.
“For decades, he woke up Tinseltown every day with his likeable charm and knowledgeable take on the film industry. He was on first name terms with the stars and was affectionately known as 'Hollywood Sam.' 'We will all miss him,' said This Morning. Statement regarding X.
“A tribute to Sam is planned for Monday's show, but in the meantime, we would like to send our condolences to his wife Leslie, their four children, and to Sam's colleagues at KTLA. Masu.”
Among the celebrities who paid their respects was American actor Ben Stiller, who described him as a “consummate professional”.
“I am very saddened and disappointed to hear of the passing of Sam Rubin,” he said.
The Zoolander star said: “I first interviewed him in about 1993 and I interviewed him countless times over the years. He loved acting and loved movies.
“He made everyone feel comfortable and was always fun and easy. He was a presence.”
Yvette Nicole Brown, an American actress who starred in “Community'' and “The Odd Couple,'' also said, “Sam was a friend. I always enjoyed visiting him at KTLA.''
“It was always a pleasure to meet Sam, even if that day was my 85th interview,” said Canadian-American actor Ryan Reynolds.
“Even though he was in his 85th interview that day, he always approached me with genuine kindness, curiosity, and out-of-the-box questions.”
Born in San Diego in 1960, Rubin joined KTLA in 1991 and won several awards during his 33-year tenure at the station.
Read more from Sky News:
Cara Delevingne speaks out after mansion fire
Hollywood's highest-paid actor revealed
California derided as a 'billion dollar' bridge to nowhere
He is a multiple Emmy Award winner, recipient of the Golden Mic Award and Lifetime Achievement Award for Best Entertainment Reporter from the Southern California Broadcasting Corporation, and was named Best Entertainment Reporter by the Los Angeles Press Club.
KTLA anchor Lynette Romero wrote a lengthy eulogy after his death: “I couldn't believe it. It must have been a mistake. But it was true.”
“I've known Sam since I moved to Los Angeles 25 years ago, and there's so much I can say about him,” she said.
“Yes, he was incredibly good at his job. He loved being on TV. He loved his family and valued his friends. He was kind and thoughtful and had the most beautiful blue eyes. Ta.”