KTLA Entertainment Reporter Sam Rubin Dead at 64

He reportedly had a heart attack after his Friday segments on Morning News.

Sam Rubin, an entertainment reporter who has been a fixture on Los Angeles’s KTLA since 1991, has died at 64. “Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world, and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades,” the station said in a statement confirming the news. “His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him. Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most. Our thoughts are with Sam’s family during this difficult time.” A source close to the station later confirmed to Variety that Rubin died of a heart attack at home on Friday after finishing his regular Hollywood segments on the station’s Morning News program.

Born in San Diego in 1960, Rubin eventually became a staple for stars on Hollywood press tours and reported on the inner workings of the industry. He co-founded the Critics Choice Association and has written celebrity biographies about Jackie Kennedy and Mia Farrow. Over his decadeslong career, he has been honored with a Golden Mike for Best Entertainment Reporter, a lifetime-achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association, and Best Entertainment Reporter honors from the Los Angeles Press Club. Rubin is survived by his wife, Leslie, and their four children. In the wake of his death, several celebrities have taken to social media to pay tribute.

Absolutely devastated by the loss of @KTLA’s Sam Rubin (@SamOnTV). You might remember this amazing cameo from NEW NIGHTMARE. We watched him almost daily. When he covered one of my movies it was such a thrill. He was more than an entertainment journalist, he was an LA institution. pic.twitter.com/oQThYdTQdE

— Joe Russo (@joerussotweets) May 10, 2024

This is dreadful news. One of the true delights of being in show business was the opportunity to chat occasionally with Sam Rubin. In fact, I was looking forward to seeing Sam in a couple of weeks. He was a wonderful part of life in Los Angeles. I’ll miss him. https://t.co/XI0evw65kS

— Dave Foley (@DaveSFoley) May 10, 2024

So sad to learn that we’ve lost Sam Rubin. It was always a pleasure to see him and to be in his presence. My condolences to his family and fans. https://t.co/xWDA8wY787

— octavia spencer (@octaviaspencer) May 10, 2024

So sad and sorry to hear of Sam Rubin’s passing. Consummate pro. I did my first interview with him in something like ‘93, and countless times over the years. He loved actors and movies. He made everyone feel comfortable and it was always fun and easy. He was an institution. We…

— Ben Stiller (@BenStiller) May 10, 2024

I am shocked and saddened by the news of Sam Rubin’s untimely passing. If you look up “kind” you would see his picture. RIP, Sam.. you will definitely be missed by me. pic.twitter.com/MsHYoXnnvs

— Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) May 10, 2024

Today we lost LA legend Sam Rubin from @KTLAMorningNews I had the privilege of doing countless segments with him over the last 15+ years. In studio or on the streets it was always a pleasure. I will miss you Sam. Thank you ???? pic.twitter.com/5pyxdOv5Pl

— G a b r i e l - I g l e s i a s (@fluffyguy) May 10, 2024

Sam Rubin was a LEGEND. Rest In Peace KING. pic.twitter.com/KlvC6oiIJm

— Jerry O'Connell (@MrJerryOC) May 10, 2024

I last talked to Sam Rubin at the Critics Choice Awards this year. His smile and his genuine excitement for all things Hollywood ever present. In nervous situations he was a buoy of kindness. I will miss him. pic.twitter.com/rAG8DZ777q

— Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) May 10, 2024

Truly heartbreaking to hear of the passing of Sam Rubin from KTLA morning news. He made my mornings, my band and me, more interesting and entertaining than they deserved to be…
Thank you Sam, Rest Easy ???????? pic.twitter.com/xkqGMeyKyV

— Mark McGrath (@mark_mcgrath) May 10, 2024

I am numb and shocked at the news of my friend Sam Rubin passing. He cared about everyone that he met and always took the time to smile and ask about family and was the best at what he did. I can’t believe this news. So devastating and sad. Thinking about his beautiful family… pic.twitter.com/xthdAOvGha

— Greg Grunberg (@greggrunberg) May 10, 2024

Devastated by this news. I truly loved Sam, who was so supportive of me and the industry in general. He was the best. I can’t quite process him being gone. Sending so much love to his family and friends. So sad. RIP Sam. Love you, pal. https://t.co/w4TxOcSsZa

— Paul Feig (@paulfeig) May 10, 2024

Heartbreaking. Love to everyone at @KTLA and love to his beloved wife and children. Sam Rubin was a consummate pro, he was hilarious and he had a huge heart. It was always a joy and a privilege to get a chance to talk with him. Sam will be deeply missed. May his memory be a… https://t.co/Bk8TemBMum

— Bradley Whitford (@BradleyWhitford) May 10, 2024

RIP entertainment maven Sam Rubin. Genuinely good guy, and really the only game in town.

— Michael McKean (@MJMcKean) May 10, 2024

Related

• Samuel L. Jackson Puts News Anchor in His Place