Sam Rubin, legendary KTLA entertainment reporter, dies at 64

Sam Rubin, one of the most respected and connected entertainment journalists in broadcast history, died suddenly in Los Angeles on Friday at age 64.
Rubin's family confirmed he died of a heart attack. He was last on the air Thursday morning and showed no outward signs of illness, co-workers said.
Rubin joined KTLA 5 Morning News in 1991, instantly making an impact with his encyclopedic knowledge of film and television and infectious charm. His news reports, interviews and feature segments were central to the morning broadcast and a hallmark of KTLA's brand.
Rubin's sudden passing devastated co-workers, many of whom reflected on his impact during KTLA's live coverage.
Details: ktla.com/entertainment/sam-ru...
KTLA 5 News - Keeping Southern Californians informed since 1947.

[@theinfamousmell]

I grew up watching this man! R.I.P Mr.Rubin the 5 will NEVER Be the same! L.A O.G 🫡🙏🏾

[@stavros333]

Famous for Knowing Celebrities or for Being a Father and Husband? His legacy is his family. Entertainment Hollywood racist sexist godless industry is nothing to be proud of. Talk to the millions of people who have come to Hollywood and only found casting couches and elite sex parties to be drugged and raped. Yeah, hes famous for painting this sex trafficking industry an Alice in wonderland luring teens from around the world into PedoWood Hollywood. THANKS SAM!

[@allisonmcmillan-lee662]

It was such a shock to hear this today! We will all miss him. He was one of the best in the business. An enduring fixture in the entertainment reporting field. And a truly good-hearted individual. My sympathies to you all and especially to his dear family.

[@Katryna35]

This is so sad. I live in El Paso, Texas and I would watch him and news station. He was such a fun person to watch. Rest in Peace Sir.

[@FadedRain714]

It’s been a pleasure watching you for all my years of life! May you rest in peace.

[@rcoke2]

Wow, he use to correspond for the UK morning TV programme - This Morning.. Our condolences from over the pond

[@rociocrisostomo4654]

Sam was one of the most genuinely beautiful beings to walk on the face of this earth. He was kind, humble, gracious, funny, effervescent, a wonderful listener, and loved by many. I've followed him on KTLA for over 25 years.... he was a friend that I knew I could visit daily to count on for a laugh and a smile. His warm and welcoming smile is going to be missed. KTLA and the world will never be the same. RIP dear, sweet, friend. You will be missed... 1960-2024 💔🫶🏻🙏🏼💕✨️

[@AnotherMexican-ur5vb]

R.I.P Sam Rubin a Legend and a staple in Los Angeles and all over the world, Crazy how someone i never met has impacted my Childhood and my life....Truly a Legend. 💔💔💔

[@tmq800]

Watched Sam Rubin since 1991. A great entertainment journalist that will be surely missed.

[@dustino.2297]

I never met Sam Rubin but I really suspect fatigue was a possible factor leading up to what happen since KTLA’s morning show starting at 4:00 am each day sounds exhausting so I wonder if his fatigue was ever too heavy too bear but he just didn’t want to admit it.

[@jon-ericphoenixx1667]

I remember watching Sam Rubin back in the 90's, back in the old school days of KTLA Ch.5. He always delivered his stories, but nobody did it better than Sam Rubin himself. Sam Rubin is a Los Angeles legend and he will be sorrowfully missed. I guess GOD needed a new newscaster in heaven and he is going to make a debut only he can. Rest In Peace SAM RUBIN & 🙏 my heart felt sympathies goes out to The Rubin Family; his KTLA Ch.5 family, and those he's touched.

[@fairgame.236]

I remember watching him every day. When I used to live in LA he always seemed like a nice guy... R.I.P Sam Rubin😢

[@dwnwind]

KTLA, what a beautiful tribute. I would watch Sam through the years on KTLA channel 5. Sam had an infectious and caring personality. I enjoyed watching Sam because he would always smile and make you feel at ease. I salute you, Sam. RIP my friend.

[@deegee9560]

We all love you Sam! RIP! Great loss to Los Angeles and Hollywood! Entertainment legend!

[@CabFamilyAdventures]

Thank you for doing this! Praying for your whole team. We are so heartbroken.

[@darcienolan532]

I started watching KTLA after I had my son in 1993. I was changing the channels, by DIAL🤣🤣. And I heard this laugh that sound contagious. There was Sam on the TV. My son turns 31 next month and I just saw this and I gasped and just stared at my phone for a minute and tears filled my eyes… Someone you’d never think you’d feel “close” to because they are on TV, but it didn’t matter. Everything he did, everything he said you knew he was being truthful and he was a friend you never knew you had. I live on Vancouver Island, here in BC, and this tribute was heartfelt and beautiful. My condolences to Sam’s family and all the KTLA staff, and everyone else who will be forever impacted by Sam Rubin’s view of life❤️

[@karitahannikainen4734]

YOU really found the essence of him..and his presence- which never disappears..Love ❤

[@stevewalker846]

I was shocked when I heard the news this afternoon. So sorry for your loss. I've watched Sam since he first came to KTLA. My condolences to his friends and family ... He will be missed.

[@pegedey1291]

He will be so missed. Condolences to his family, his ktla family and all who cared for him.

[@joemarquez9789]

Such a shock & a huge loss in the entertainment industry. Sam Rubin was such a legend. Gone way too soon. Only 64. I grew up watching him on KTLA channel 5. It's been such a joy watching him for 33 years. Sam Rubin was so dearly loved & will be missed. My heart & deepest condolences go out to his family, friends & colleagues. RIP🙏Sam🪦We⚰️love you.

[@mindyhuntbeach8026]

Even though I left California a few months ago, Sam and the KTLA news family are one that I miss alot! I'm still in shock and I can't believe it. My prayers are with his family and the KTLA family as well! My heart is broken along with all of you!

[@christiancorona2162]

Sam was a pretty big part of my early mornings. Always loved going back to YT and seeing fun moments & bloopers. My condolences to the Rubin and KTLA families. 💔

[@josephmontezuma5089]

That's crazy! He was always so happy and cheery RIP ⚰️

[@Edsthemeparks]

❤❤❤❤ we will miss you Sam

[@elliswind7146]

❤❤❤❤❤ this breaks my heart. RIP 🙏 sending condolences here from INDIANA.

[@dskinner8757]

That's crazy. Will always love this man. 💯

[@drewmonroe3747]

I am in shock and so saddened. So unexpected. Half-way through watching this, brought back a memory when another beautiful soul from Seattle's KOMO TV, Kathi Gertzen, passed away. I grew up watching her alongside of Dan Lewis. I remember the feeling of loss and pain for someone I've never met. That was 2012. Today, that same feeling of loss was present again. Sam, thank you for being so you, so funny, intelligent and being there for us for all those years. Condolences to the KTLA family and to your personal family and friends. Thank you KTLA, for sharing Sam's stories and his work he did for MS. There'll never be another one like Sam. R.I.P🌹

[@mza2195]

Thank you KTLA. Sam was such a great part of my morning! Hugs and condolences to his family and colleagues.

[@steveogee7458]

The world is colder without Sam. Rest in peace our friend. One of a kind.

[@mariepanimdim4303]

I was in a car accident today and my head and my heart were pounding so fast and hard it scared me so l didnt go to work and upon returning home got the news and was shocked and deeply sad. Life is unpredictable and having a heart attack at 64 is so crazy especially for Sam he was healthy happy and i guess God needed an Angel. May God bless his family and friends everyday 💙🙏😓 sam you will be missed and i predict a star on the Hollywood walk of fame soon 🙏😊 im 57 w high blood pressure so today felt real for me -so please everyone take care of your health as best you're àble❤

[@SANDYMILLER23]

l hope and pray you're doing better. Beautifully said.

[@racheldemain1940]

Get Well Soon . Love from the UK ❤❤❤❤

[@lmc2375]

Wishing you the best. Change diet to lower blood pressure without drugs - avoid the toxins. And go to yoga, mediate - leave stress at the curb. Not worth dying for. Chuck job if that's where your stress is generated. Go find a job you love instead, before you quit. I'm 59 and my job can be hectic, but I don't let it get me worked up. I tell my boss off on his bs. He's wrong not once in awhile, but every damn time. He's fired me 20x, 10 min later he is asking me for something. He's just all nonsense. His son prays daily I stay on. I refuse to let this job kill me - and I do it all, alone. I don't even get days off in like 2 yrs. I should leave, but I make great dough. I can feel it coming soon though. You can only do so much for an ingrate, even if he says thank you fairly often, he's still a big pill.

[@steverollins4690]

I certainly remember Sam when I lived in SoCal, RIP

[@yourguidetorights3909]

Remember watching Sam when we lived in SoCal. Always enjoyed his reporting. RIP from Virginia.

[@robertmartinez4174]

Sam Ruben was as much loved here in LA as Vin Skully was. he will certainly be missed by us all.

[@merndab2736]

Hugs to Mark, the weatherman, him and Sam, were bookends for as long as I've watched , Love you Mark 🤗 hugs ❤ RIP Sam❤

[@ihytyler_5622]

Another one of my KTLA legends gone man I used to watch him with my grandmother when I was younger 😔

[@franciscagarcia6929]

On behave of my husband and I our deepest sympathy. It is a shock when a loved one is taken in a split of a second. We lost our son 14 years ago in a car accident. But our Dear Lord wanted him home . Our thoughts and prayers are always with you all at KTLA and Sam’s Family. Rest In Peace Sam.🙏🕊

[@Pedroism]

Yea the spaghetti monster snapped his finger bang u heart attack now

[@roxannemiller1051]

Sam Rubin will be greatly missed. He loved LOS ANGELES & its people. He loved the arts & entertainment industries. His great smile and personality will be much missed from my regular morning routine. He was the reason i kept KTLA morning on from 6am until the 3pm hour his jokes made me laugh, his smile was bright , his stories were great. He always had something interesting to say and some way to draw me in.❤❤❤R.I.P. Sam Rubin may prayer 🙏 be with Leslie and your kids at this troubling time. Prayers with your coworkers as well.

[@nintendude57]

A part of us Angelinos has been ripped apart from us, he was such an energetic, funny, and charming man, RIP Sam, you’ll be sorely missed 🙏🏻🤍🕊️

[@77THEECHOSEN1]

May The Good Lord Rest His Precious Soul😓My Condolences To His Family& Friends 👑😓😇🙏‼️

[@ramonalisa8546]

His memory Is a blessing ❤

[@toxicspittt]

I grew up watching you with my mom sam, thank you for the great memories and keeping us laughing.

[@Hummingbirds2023]

Rest in Peace Dear Sweet Loving Sam Rubin, your job here on earth is done. He will be sorely deeply missed, a great man.🌹🙏💔

[@shirleyharris1335]

Sincerely & Deepest Condolences 💐 to each and every one of you, his family! 🙏🏽 ❤

[@donnaosuch5210]

I have watched him for years. Please except my deepest sympathy 🙏 ❤

[@bctesla]

Sam , Kobe and G are so tragic to the L.A. area . I’m just sad . Hope I can cheer up . They were all so awesome .

[@LindaGarris]

R.I.P. SAM..MY HEART IS TORN..YOU WERE THE BEST!!!!!

[@shirleymosley8290]

Sam Rubin had a beautiful spirit gonna miss him dearly. 😢💔🙏🏽🕊️

[@cynthiabell4591]

I lived in California for 30 years! I remember how Sam Rubin was a great person. RIP Sam🙏🏾

[@thisisme3238]

🙏 RIP SAM RUBIN 🙏 Condolences to your family and friends at this difficult time. 😢😥

[@larrygrace7922]

My prayers go to his family and friends

[@tmq800]

Great memories watching Sam Rubin. A cornerstone of KTLA that will be surely missed.

[@babeepiei]

RIP🙏🙏🙏

[@SelfAwareOne]

KTLA NEWS…..you are THE BEST. I’m at a loss for words regarding what a beautiful, touching, amazing job you did paying tribute to the brilliant Sam Rubin. SO shocking…..thank you for helping those of us who love him process this sad news, all while you held your composure, as you experienced your own shock and grief…..YOU are ALL pros, and a beautiful family, indeed….the reason I watch KTLA exclusively! My sincerest sympathy for your enormous loss, as you mourn and grieve💜

[@ramonalisa8546]

1 of a kind 💔 Condolences to his family & friends and the many, many who loved him🙏

[@gingermesmer4333]

Sam was the best and it shows how much he was loved. KTLA is doing a wonderful job honoring him. He Is Loved By All.

[@kathynemec4288]

May he always be remembered for the love of Entertainment. Master at his own craft. May he Rest In Peace. My thoughts goes out to his family. He definitely will be missed.

[@barb6868]

I’ve watched him since the 90’s. KTLA won’t be the same. 💔

[@dianadeller7579]

Heartbreaking.. entertainment LEGEND!! Rip Sam. You are definitely amongst all those angels. 🙏 Is there anyone who he didn’t know. He was loved by all...

[@vd9arcia324]

My deepest condolences to his wife, kids, friends and his KTLA family. 🙏😔

[@user-bq8dd7kg7g]

What a shock! I’m so sorry for Sam Rubin’s family and colleagues. So happy to watch him in the morning. True LA man. Miss you, Sam.

[@Makaveli3k.]

He truly loved LA 🫡

[@geeden.6631]

Have been watching KTLA morning news decades, he was ine of favorites. Will miss his commentary.🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@user-to5mf9il1n]

Remember watching him from Chicago doing reporting showbiz from L A

[@penguinabroad]

I grew up watching Sam and he always put a smile on my face. It truly did have an infectious laugh and such a positive attitude. R.I.P. Sam Rubin. You will be very missed, but your legacy will live on through all of us you made laugh.

[@Brandon-xs4pd]

ResT in paradise this man had a humble soul!

[@missladybob4208]

OMG I loved Sam he will be missed, my prayers for his family

[@christinedibene4429]

I remember as a kid watching ktla and just loving Sam!!! He was a big part of my childhood and even after I left California, I would watch the morning news just to see Sam. He will truly be missed!!!

[@redondobeach7514]

RIP Sam KTLA, definitely the best place I ever worked!

[@moniquehayes3922]

Can’t believe it Sam you will never be forgotten

[@Ina-Lori-tm2zh]

Loved seeing Sam on ch 5 every morn-will miss him.

[@Baseds__Backup_Account_3]

Rest in peace, dear sir.

[@Mgpcc67]

My heart is broken!

[@juneyshu6197]

Oh, no, this is shocking. Blessings to all his loved ones❤

[@lechusalinda9141]

Rest in peace Sam Ruben🙏🏼🕊️

[@danielsemerdzhyan2075]

We will miss him so much I been watching K T L A 5 for years 😢🎉❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@ljm9092]

I just heard of Sam's Passing. I am Astouded. This is surreal. He was such a wonderful entertainer, and he has made me laugh so much. I will miss him so very much. Rest IN Peace Sam. you are the best. 😪😪Much Love To His Family.

[@mandoleyva9163]

Rest in Peace Sam. You'll be deeply missed by many.

[@leticiaolivar5991]

😢 we loved Sam and our condolences to his family and KTLA family. God Bless his family and all of you.

[@fernandothehandyman]

Rest Easy Sam Rubin much Love ❤️ big fan of your work in KTLA 5 . ThankYou 😢

[@karcar818]

Rip 🙏🏻💐

[@karitahannikainen4734]

To KTLA- family: Sam is there with you all! You laugh and cry with him- He hasn't left. Hugs to all ❤

[@leslie4292]

My favorite memory of Sam is watching him dance with BTS! RIP Sam Rubin

[@livgarces6935]

So damn SAD!!! My mornings will never feel the same

[@biscuit4christ]

Sam Rubin was one-of-a-kind. The celebrities loved him so much. He will be missed. 😭

[@FlyySlyyGreen]

BRO 😎 BEEN ON TV My whole life …..R.I.P. Sam Rubin Covering the Local News for years😢

[@laraoneal7284]

I only watched KTLA when SAM was on. That’s how special Sam was.

[@melodyminkley4974]

My condolences to his family and friends ❤ he will be missed ❤

[@katheinireland8431]

The world lost a light when it lost Sam Rubin this week. Namaste Sam. We met in the early 90’s and I grew up watching him on the news. He was as respectable, kind, and genuine as people come. RIP Sam. See you in the next realm.

[@angeliquecheung574]

I can never get over that he is gone. He was always there. A main member of the KTLA news crew.

[@MauriceOrtiz-ut8yi]

Wow! You never know how you take someone for granted til they're gone. RIP it up Sam?

[@georgeawestjr.9087]

OMG!!! I'm originally from Wayne, New Jersey!!! I lived there for 35 years!!! Sad to hear about Sam Rubin from KTLA-TV, Channel 5, Los Angeles, CA. RIP Sam. 😓😥😢

[@fcuringa-harris5389]

Bless his precious heart. We watched him for 32 years. 😭

[@HeidiNandez]

Oh my gosh So SAD!!😭💔😭

[@christophersermeno8631]

Sam Rubin...one of those iconic broadcasters that you automatically associate with his channel...think Jerry Dunphy at Channel 7, Peter Jennings at ABC, Walter Cronkite at CBS....not since the late great Hal Fishman has KTLA had such an iconic broadcaster...what a shocker....what a loss....

[@MRDOA66]

I am so sad to hear about the sudden death of Sam Rubin. He was a true talent and genius in the field of Entertainment, Red Carpet Interviewing and Broadcasting. I watched him from London, UK when he talked to the Presenters on the This Morning Show, giving them (The UK Presenters) an update on the entertainment news in Hollywood. I was trying to see him when I flew over from London, UK to Los Angeles for the 2023 Oscar Film Awards. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, and the KTLA Entertainment Team in Hollywood, Los Angeles.

[@JoeDias-ur6bz]

I am brokenhearted at this news! I haven't stopped crying. I also grew up with Sam and Mark, watching them all the time. I just can't imagine life without them, and I feel so badly for his family and pray for them to have peace at this time, as well as all of you at KTLA. He was just too young. I love you all!! Karen Westgate longtime viewer.😂😂😂😂😢

[@rickygomez2112]

Rest In Peace Sam Rubin!!!! My Deepest Condolences To The Family 🙏🏽

[@ShirleyOlanoHiles]

Every morning , his voice, charisma is the daily fixture you see in TV. He’ll be missed 😢

[@InnocentCroquet-lp2nw]

Rip in peace 🙏😇🌹SAM RUBIN God bless your Soul and your FAMILY 🙏AMEN

[@Bassett1994]

Sam brought us the Stars. We just lost Our Star 😢

[@tangotwo73]

RIP! Dear Sam, Watched from the very start.💜💜💜

[@josephgarcia9430]

Shocking to hear the sad news. Thank you for the childhood memories watching you in the AM getting ready for school. RIP Mr. Sam Rubin

[@mr2del]

It's a sad day and night. I didn't know about this until moments ago. Lynette Romero posted in an FB video short. I'm just stunned in an unfamiliar way. I didn't start watching KTLA mornings until 2011. I missed a lot over the years. Since leaving LA, I was fortunate to get KTLA online. I'm sorry this happened. Words alone won't ever explain the way I feel as I write this. Like Frank, Megan, Chris, Michaela, Jessica, Henry and Mark, Sam was an asset. We lost a voice, institution and hero. Thanks very much for your hard work and leadership Sam Rubin. Sweet dreams.

[@shirleylewis3103]

Rest In Peace Condolence to Family & Friends😪