Colby Rubin discusses his father’s impact on his life

Sam Rubin was KTLA’s family man. He was known for combining his private and public lives together on the air - many times including his children in the fun - giving viewers a unique look inside the home life of one of L.A.’s most iconic reporters. Sam’s four children - Rory, Perry, Darcy, and Colby - were his pride and joy; his role as father was the only thing more important than his role as L.A.’s leading entertainment correspondent. His children also loved him very dearly, as evidenced by his 16-year-old son Colby’s appearance on the KTLA 5 Morning News on Monday, where he stoically honored his father’s legacy on his life and countless other lives across Los Angeles and the world. (May 13, 2024)
KTLA 5 News - Keeping Southern Californians informed since 1947.

[@robinblades600]

This coming from a 16 year old who was just a boy a few days ago but is now a young man, his Father did an amazing job raising him ❤️

[@gillowejr8393]

He’s 16??? Jesus! He’s more composed than most adults!

[@fob1xxl]

His father would be SO PROUD. What a teriffic son ! I was crying my eyes out, and I'm a 79 year old man ! My condolences to the Rubin family and to his family at work. The love for this man shines bright !May God comfort all of you.

[@j.vi-geant6784]

I cried too, WHO wouldn't? What a lovely family...God will bless and provide for them all. Massive heart attack..that's how John Dye of "Touched by an Angel" went too. He was gone in 24 hours, as did his father bf him. It's a heart issue.

[@ronnie13131]

Agreed! What an amazing young man Sam Rubin & Wife have raised, that kid, is the epitome of making this world a better place.

[@shellybeck3376]

So if ur 79 u cannot cry?? How stupid.

[@Easilyamusedmuppet]

The text messages encouraging his son in his most anxious moments made me tear up. The words were both kind but true. He would be there for him but wouldn’t let him avoid confronting his fears! Wow! What an Amazing father! RIP

[@djemcee]

How was he able to do that. His strength is insane. He shouldn’t have to do that at age 16. It’s his honor I’m sure, but wow that’s hard.

[@Lynnmusiccowgirl]

Magnificent man...not a young man any longer. GOD bless you Colby and your family as you learn a new way of going through day to day without Sam. He was quite the guy, never missed him on air🙏💔😇

[@coreym162]

Sam raised him that way. That's how

[@chunri1626]

How they were raised, how they were a part of the Ktla family too. Not normal to most but they felt connected in front of the camera. I’m sure the tributes over the last few days have to do with his wanting to share as well.

[@saulalvarez220]

We all deal with death in different ways, and any kind of death is never easy... Colby might have needed the company of those who feel the same way he does. He probably needs support and to know that he is cared for. I can't imagine losing dad at 16, so sad. Also, Sam was so excellent that he thought it was appropriate to honor his father, Sam.

[@sjduges67]

@djemcee, well said. One somehow finds a way. I recently lost my youngest son and somehow was able to deliver a eulogy. You're right, the strength needed to do something like what Colby did (ON THE AIR, no less!) is incredible. I'm sure he'll find a way to honor his dad every single day of his life.

[@PublicAtLarge]

At 16 Colby has gained wisdom that many of us don’t until our 40s, 50s or 60s. That was real, that was raw, and that was heartfelt. Props to him for even having the guts to go on the air today and to do it with the same poise his dad did. I could not have done it.

[@allaboutthatwifeandmomlife]

Omg he’s so brave. At 16 he’s so mature,and poised.

[@the.seagull.35]

To show those text messages is just exceptional. There is nothing he wanted to do more than honor his Dad. He was willing to show his own moment of weakness, so people could see the way his Dad responded. It must have meant so much to him. Transparency is a beautiful thing in a human being. Respect

[@TropicalPassionFruit]

Can there be a Sam Rubin cupcake day? His method of eating a cupcake is brilliant. Thank you Colby for sharing your father with us.

[@antoinettelashonda113]

That was the hardest, most heartfelt thing I have ever had to listen to in my life. Rest in Paradise Sam ❤️🙏🏽

[@Lynnmusiccowgirl]

Big AMEN🙏💔

[@ladydi37115]

Amen 🙏 ❤️

[@mattreynolds7613]

His family should sue phizer

[@meganhussey972]

Colby, your father's talent, smarts, looks and charm still live on. I see them in you.

[@Quintessence.]

THIS touching, poignant, evocative video is a PERFECT example of how important the role of Fatherhood is for families. Do Fathers matter? 100% RIGHT they do!! As we just observed Mother's Day, and they deserve every bit of the respect and honor they get, Father's play a VITAL role as well.

[@JenShea]

100% agree… I wish more father’s would stand up more… all children need both parents!

[@rvmotionpictures]

I was working for Sony Pictures and had the opportunity to pick up Sam at the KTLA Lot to drive him to set for the movie AMERICA'S SWEETHEARTS.... That he played a part in....What a talented and wonderful person.... Then the following Saturday I saw him with his family at Target and he was just a "Dad"

[@elvisfan61]

This was both beautiful and heartbreaking. I'm 63 and lost my mom, who I was very close to, about 8 weeks ago. There is no way in hell I could go on live television and be able to say the things he did. I appreciate this young man coming on. Stay strong, Colby. It was a beautiful tribute to your dad. He is looking down on you and is as proud as he could be. Much love to the Rubin family. To the folks at KTLA, thank you for this morning. You are all doing an outstanding job.

[@julievanderleest]

Hugs to you. Sorry for your loss. I lost my mom just over a year ago. Very close as well. Praying for you.

[@elvisfan61]

@@julievanderleest Thank you. Same to you. 💝

[@ATXDavid1.]

So sorry for your loss🙏❤️

[@ATXDavid1.]

@@julievanderleestso sorry for your loss🙏❤️

[@elvisfan61]

@@ATXDavid1. Thank you. 🙂

[@Chucky1er]

That courage. I lost my grandmother when I was 14, that was almost 25 years ago and till this day I’ve never been able to talk about it with my family. When I talk with my husband I always brake down.

[@josephpenate6408]

Nothing but the utmost respect for Colby for doing this. To go on TV and speak his heart out, is one of the most difficult things to overcome. Much respect and condolences to the Rubin family.

[@miavega8888]

losing a loving dad is so damn hard. Bless this young man and his family. RIP Sam.

[@doridelaney7197]

Beautiful Son! Beautiful Father! 😇🥰

[@ejicon3099]

Colby is such a strong dude being able to do this. Well done sir. Your father was indeed extremely loved. We will all miss him very much.

[@lucyn2112]

We grew up for decades watching Sam Rubin. He lit up our homes. He raised such amazing and beautiful kids. Thank you for sharing your father’s memory with us. I lost my dad at age 4 to cancer and never had a father. Please appreciate the blessings you had with the time you shared with your dad.

[@willis949]

I have cried more over Sam Rubin than I ever imagined. I met him once in the 90s,and he was such a nice guy.I will never forget how bright blue his eyes were in person.When his son said he was only 16 I was blown away.He has been raised well obviously.

[@ladydi37115]

I can't stop crying watching this. Boy, will he be missed. This is so beautiful watching how much his son loved him. I am so, so sorry❤

[@chrissysvideos]

Beautiful young man, this is so touching.....dad is SO proud!!! He lives forever in you! RIP Sam....xo

[@meganjoelyn2207]

This seriously sucks. I can't believe he's gone. So impressed with Colby for doing this.❤

[@roxanacruz7750]

I love the way he talked about his proud dad, every word he said so beautiful and honest. Like he said he will miss his dad everyday..Lets share our love ones hugging every moment. We here now but we dont know about tomorrow. ❤

[@benballesteros6346]

As a father who has made many mistakes and children who are far away. Sam Rubin is my hero and this young man is such a wonderful son. God Bless the Rubin Family

[@thepriest98]

How was he able to do this so soon after? This is strength personified! No way I could do this in the company of family let alone on live TV. My hats off young man

[@courtneyzoller1545]

His dad was such a breathe of fresh air on television. Prayers to his family and beautiful, brave son.

[@SatyaKaliYam]

It takes bravery to share your life and love of your father. He was a great human being and father. You are all blessed and sending my deepest condolences to you and your family.

[@sherrysutcliffe678]

I was an absolute puddle watching Colby honor his dad in such a heartfelt and moving way. As a Canadian I'm not able to stream the whole program. However, these snippets that I've been finding on KZbin regarding Mr. Rubin have just been a blessing. R. I. P. Sir!

[@sherrysutcliffe678]

Thank you KTLA for posting the full morning show of tributes. I stayed awake most of the night watching. Almost 6 hrs of memories of Sam!😘.

[@saulalvarez220]

It was courageous of him to do that only a few days after his father's passing. My condolences to Colby for losing his dad at 16. Excellent job from the KTLA family for supporting him in the loss. Lots of love, Thank you.

[@skater5696]

I've had KTLA news constantly on since the morning while working from home. I saw Colby's tribute 4 times today so far on my TV, and I cried every single time. What a beautiful and heartfelt tribute from a son to his father. Oh man, he's only 16 too. Sam was a bright light and angel on earth. He had a smile and energy and a way that made my mornings a little brighter. Much condolences to his family and his colleagues during such a hard time.

[@allie3804]

Colby is such a kind, smart, brave young man. What a wonderful tribute to your father. You and your wife did good Sam! I've watched Sam since 1991 when I was a stay at home mom with my newborn. RIP Sam Rubin, you will definitely be missed immensely. ❤

[@frankie5072]

I grew up watching Sam and loved his candor, his professionalism, and passion for what he did. Nobody had a bad word about him, ever. That’s a testament to his character and the type of man he was, God Bless the Rubin family.

[@cjquin81]

I remember when Sam called out Perez because of how incredibly rude and arrogant he was. Sam was the nicest genuine person and wasn’t afraid to call out wha needed to be called out.

[@freddymedina774]

My heart goes out to the Rubin family. I remember the first week of the morning news with Carlos, Barbra, Eric, Mark, and Sam. I’ve enjoyed all the laughter for so many years. Los Angeles has your back Rubin family. Rest in peace Sam..

[@thewizboy]

Wow. I'm literary dying inside. This broke my heart when i first heard. Now I'm sobbing all over again to his sons condolences to his father. Whew, take a breath. too much too much too much. This segment has literary destroyed me all over again. All the best to the Rubin family. God bless 🙏🏼 😢

[@StyilshSteph]

Colby's tribute brought me to tears. It was lovely the way he honored his father. I'm in awe over his strength, grace, and composure at such a young age. I grew up watching KTLA and was in absolute shock after hearing the news about Sam Rubin. He left his mark on so many people across the world and Colby's tribute shows what an amazing father Sam was. My heart and sincere condolences go out to the Rubin family and KTLA family.

[@sherri4295]

😢 this was the most touching and heart wrenching speech letter I’ve ever heard! The strength that Colby Rubin showed is incredible! ❤️ this broke me down and I miss Sam so much, but when you hear his son who has lost, his dad is 16 years old and was so strong it gives me strength pink hard emoji my love, thoughts and condolences to the whole Reuben family and the KTLA family, which I feel a part of since 1991! We will love and miss you the great legend Sam Rubin! God bless your family. God bless you Kobe thank you so much too ❤️ Your beyond your years…

[@Blueeyedsoul1986]

Wow that was powerful moving message

[@shirleyharris1335]

😢😢😢So awesome to listen to this young man acknowledge and praise his relationship with his Dad! 🙏🏽 ❤ Sincerest Condolences 💐

[@SusannaBliss]

So sad, condolences and prayers for his Son and Family. I lost my Mom not to long ago and still I feel her around, see her in dreams, they really are and will be with you forever. Rip Sam. 🌹.

[@skater5696]

Much condolences and prayers for you, too.

[@MaryRBonney]

I suddenly lost my father from a heart attack last month. I barely got through his eulogy, you are so strong and he is be so proud Colby! The love of a father is so profound and special, and will continue long after they aren't physically with us. The best parts of our fathers live on through us because we had such close relationships with them. I hope the memories of him bring you comfort and your family and friends remind you that you'll never be alone. Sending you love

[@Paola-jf2qf]

I grew up watching Sam. He brought comfort and joy to so many. Prayers for the family.

[@DallasLaxton]

crying so hard. Great job Colby your Dad is looking down on you with so much pride. Sending love to the Rubin family.

[@msmee0079]

Hugggs to Colby❤❤❤❤ I'm in tears at his strength 😢

[@MG-jj3pn]

Lovely young man is a reflection of his father

[@BabaYaga-yh3yi]

KTLA is my fav new channel and I grew up wathing Sam everyday. RIP.

[@jimmyconn7314]

Tears.colby ask God to relieve you of your stress and anxiety.he will always comfort you from above with your dad.

[@Lynnmusiccowgirl]

💔🙏 Amen

[@SweatyGreaseMan]

Just text my father to let him know I love him. A fathers love is everything, rest in peace Sam.

[@araceli203]

Colby thank you for sharing your beatiful relationship with your dad, his family is his bestest legacy. God Bless

[@karlyrothenberg347]

Colby you are so brave and so wonderful! Your dad would be so so proud of you for speaking up today. You just showed so many others who have lost parents to be strong and powerful. You are such a light in this world!❤❤❤

[@lynnbird5753]

This made me cry! God Bless Sam Rubin!

[@cuziluvyou2]

RIP Sam, we already miss you. Prayers to you Colby and your family and know your Dad touched so many hearts with his special gifts of joy, love of life and gratitude to everyone he met & shared to the hundreds of us watching on KTLA for so many years in the morning. He was an incredible man who I will remember his smile, laughter and stories. ❤

[@TheDreamcatcher1017]

Dang it Colby...you got me crying all over again...so brave of you to come out and do this for your Father🥹🫶🏾🥺🙏🏾 Rest Easy Sam ...you will be missed😇🙏🏾❤️

[@user-xq6be7xi3z]

It's okay to Cry. That's what I Said When my Mother pass away.

[@donw3912]

Colby's dad would be so incredibly proud and i bet bragging a bit about what a terrific son he has. This was unbelievably hard but very well done !! You know you have done a great job on something like this when the viewers cry as they watch...mission accomplished here. My sincerest condolences to Colby and his family and friends and all of Sams family of co-workers at KTLA. Who knows...maybe Colby or one of his siblings may have a future in entertainment reporting. With a role model like Sam was, I would say simply to keep watching🙂

[@laraoneal7284]

A parent who REALLY DESERVES this praise as a REAL DAD.

[@nancyleskovar4621]

Colby, Such A Loving Moving Tribute to Your Dear Dad!! Like the Rest of America, He was Eagerly Welcomed to Our Breakfast Table, OUR MONTANA HOME, With His Humour, Wit, Charm and Warmth!!! SAM WAS HOME!!! EVERYONE'S HOME!!!! The Stars in the Heaven's will CONTINUE TO SHINE BRIGHTER!!!! FOREVER HEALING PRAYERS AND LOVE TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY😢❤

[@tiffanyb.7596]

Colby, thank you for sharing this precious tribute for your dad. He is so proud of you! The memories of his love & encouragement will continue to fill your entire life, because that’s what he taught you. What a beautiful family! Although we miss our loved ones, the love always stays. ♥️🧁

[@mritzs5142]

I had no intention of crying when I started to watch this. What a great man you're dad was Colby and to all of you at K TLA I happen to love you guys very much and this proves why!! Amazing compassion!!Even though I needed to leave Los Angeles always checking in. I love your team. He was a part my everyday for decades. Never pretentious yet so professional. He had qualities a balance in his personality that anybody would love to strive for Colby. I hope you go on to do great things and let this only make you persevere being the kind of adult that he taught you all about being. You are so fortunate to have had him and for him to have had you and all your siblings and your family.

[@veegee3291]

One of the most beautiful news pieces I've ever heard/seen. Colby is an intelligent, handsome young man whose got a proud Papa in Heaven today. Colby's love for his father, his courage, and maturity shown to speak with such a large, impacted audience is quite brave and was so well done. Sam made all of us better in one way or a other through his communication style and knowledge base. It is obvious that he left an indeleble mark on Colby that shines bright and will be something that Colby carries throughout his life in whatever he chooses to do in life. All the best, Colby. We are very sorry for the loss of your father and our Hollywood go-to.

[@teresaguerrero531]

My condolences to Sam Rubin’s family and all of the extended family he gained along the way. Colby you’re so right that you had a wonderful dad and all the love he poured into you is there for you to continue sharing ❤ I am 45 yrs old and have 3 adult kids ( 26,25,22 yrs old) I didn’t grow up w my parents and I never felt their love. My grandparents raised me and I had a purpose in life to give my kids all the love I wanted to experience and make sure they had a great life where they felt love , support and unconditional love always. And I am doing that my oldest daughter texted me on Mother’s Day Thank you for being my best friend 😢❤ best GIFT ever I can receive as a parent. Please keep sharing your experiences with your dad he lives on through you. And lean on your loved ones they love you so much ❤

[@BoomerBlogging]

If this doesn't massively touch your heart then you are simply not paying attention to life! Sam Rubin your heart, character, and integrity lives on thru this young man, as I am sure it does thru all of your children. Love is the key to everything good and great in the world. And Mr. Rubin, you knew that and prioritized it (Love = Life's most powerful source of positive energy).

[@JP-vq8sy]

We are all tearing up here. Good job, young man. I'm sure there are tears from heaven as well. Good job, young man.

[@lauraperry176]

Oh my goodness, this touched me so much, it was so important for his son to honor his dad. This is precious, and I'm so sorry this boy has to move forward without his father by his side, but clearly the good strong person that Sam Rubin raised him to be will get him through this difficult season.

[@1Madam73]

Now, I’m crying. Bless Colby’s heart. He did awesome. With deepest sympathy.

[@incentive]

Those text messages exchanged between him and his father... ♥️ Sam truly provided him with the words of encouragement he needed, and I hope his son cherishes these invaluable words forever.

[@nikkijones8428]

What a beautiful Tribute to his Dad .. well spoken and so much compassion… you speak young man so heartfelt and brave .. This is a True mirror of how he raised you and a legacy to live on .. God love you 🙏🕊️🩵 and prayers to your family 💜your Dad and mom will be so proud of you .. 😔🙏 HUGS 🥰

[@patriciamolina5841]

A strong and amazing young man. His father must be so proud. I couldn't stop the tears from streaming down my face. My blessing to the Rubin family.💐🙏💜

[@ls-kk4pq]

Listening to his son read the note to his father. That’s where I lost it. I am on the East Coast, but Sam RIP. People won’t forget you.

[@LemonScones]

Great job son, that took more courage than most of us would have.

[@MauriceOrtiz-ut8yi]

We're all right there with you, Colby. RIP it up Sam!

[@dawnhughes3983]

Colby, he will always be with you. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal.

[@1105pitbull]

What a wonderful tribute for this young man. You could feel the love and loss, immeasurable. I think he looks like his dad! Blessings to Colby and his entire family, near and far around the world,

[@vitaAutLetum]

This young man holds himself up very well. God bless him, he will become a legendary human his father would be proud of.

[@jaylene.turner6524]

Prayers to the Rubin family for strength,peace,and comfort to carry on.

[@McWheeler93030]

I lost my father when I was 14 23 years ago my heart condolences go out to KTLA and the Ruben family

[@fast800journeylifebeyond5]

What a beautiful young man, Sam would be so proud, your maturity is beyond your years and you do look like him. Sending love from Australia 🇦🇺 we will miss him on our screens ❤

[@imkwuzn]

My heart breaks for this young man and his entire family. Clearly Sam Rubin was a very special Father to have raised such a beautiful soul and support him with wisdom, kindness and love every day of his life. God bless Colby and his entire family. Sam would be beaming with pride. 🙏💔

[@savannahm.laurentian1286]

And OMG, I eat cupcakes the same way. RIP. You have left so much of a legacy through family & friends.😢

[@debisusan4338]

I have not seen a more incredible honoring of a human being. Sam Rubin was a very special person, who will not be forgotten.

[@dianadeller7579]

So heartbreaking!! You just want to hug him. Beautiful like his father 😢

[@2ndwindthanksbetogod317]

Beautiful honoring of your dad Colby .. Prayers for the Rubin Family and for Soul of Sam Rubin Rest In Peace

[@rlcarver]

😢 I lost my dad when I was 20 from BRCA 2 breast cancer gene in 1982. He was only 50. Just when I started to have some communication skills and real life questions, he was no longer with me. This sucks. So sorry for your loss. 😢 🙌

[@angelofJESUS29]

😔🙏 and you are a great son.

[@greyroom6730]

I didn't plan on crying this morning...but wow....

[@daniellel.909]

You’re a strong and terrific young man, Colby. Your dad would be so proud of you. ❤🙏🏽

[@mindyhuntbeach8026]

Such a great kiddo! He very strong to do this! God bless you all!

[@Marta9942]

This really made me cry 😢 😭..

[@hadrianrobles4279]

All of Southern California - indeed life itself has been richly adorned in its crown with whom you were, and the fact that you chose to share your life with us, God Bless the family both near and far Sam Rubin Rest in Peace ❤

[@michelelouros-frontino1250]

I knew when I saw this video I would cry and got all the tissues out and then hit play. OMG did I need the tissues. Colby that was so important you did this. It's something you needed to do. It is a part of your journey of saying goodbye. I wish the best for you and your family. It's so hard to lose the ones you love. He is there with you in spirit, look for the signs. I think they are able to reach you even more right after they pass but he will be by your side ur whole life. God bless Michele San Pedro CA ~

[@skater5696]

I appreciate your comment. I know you’re right. I didn’t know Sam except from what I saw on TV. My mom passed a year ago, so I may come back to your comment as a reminder. Colby’s tribute had me in tears the first 4 times I saw it air on TV. Probably won’t be the last time it’ll have me in tears, but I only saw bits and parts of the heartfelt and beautiful tribute since then. You were prepared with the tissues ;)

[@Mikomido5]

What a strong and exceptional young man he raised. Thank you for sharing such a touching tribute to your dad ❤

[@jessies197]

I remember waking up to Ktla to get ready for high school from 96-2000 Sam and mark were my fav rip Sam

[@MegaHockeyfan2]

May Sam Rubin RIP i used to watch the KTLA 5 News when i lived in Torrance Calif. now im in Reno Nv. when i heard of Sam passing on You Tube i was in tears.

[@shareesapearl9799]

I grew up watching this guy he was very positive & inspiring

[@sctsh1491]

We LOVE your dad, Colby. He's taking all that love with him on his journey... May the Four winds blow him safely home. He was a Righteous man...A good man and a face we loved.

[@shatimbeecat1960]

What a wonderful son he raised OMG, I’m on the east coast, loved the idol Sam was.. heartbreaking 😿🙏😿🙏😿

[@lopezexplora]

I am so sorry for the loss of your friend, my condolences for the family and all of you at channel 5 💐

[@elizabethwilson6745]

My heart goes out to the RUBIN clan may God protect and give good health always and bless them❤😢

[@jomarielopez2229]

Good job Colby! By you sharing this very personal moment, we are all strengthened. Prayers and hugs to all of your family, friends, and Aunts and Uncles at KTLA. Your dad is proud.