In a tragic turn of events, long-time KTLA entertainment anchor Sam Rubin has passed away suddenly at the age of 64 from a heart attack, as confirmed by The Times. Rubin, who became a central member of "KTLA 5 Morning News" shortly after its launch in 1991, had made a lasting impact on local TV news in Los Angeles.

At the time of its premiere, the morning broadcast of "KTLA 5 Morning News" was considered a bold experiment, as local news stations typically focused on their evening newscasts. However, the show's emphasis on news and events around Los Angeles immediately struck a chord with viewers. With a loose and informal approach, the show's anchors and reporters engaged in breezy banter that resonated with audiences.

Rubin joined the team three months after the show's launch, bringing his energetic delivery and clear enthusiasm for all things Hollywood. His vibrant personality and extensive knowledge of entertainment news quickly endeared him to viewers. Rubin's contributions to the show helped establish its popularity, prompting rival station KTTV Channel 11 to start its own morning broadcast, turning the local TV landscape into a fierce ratings battleground.

Reflecting on their early days, former anchor Carlos Amezcua expressed his disbelief at how long the show had lasted, admitting that they were initially unsure about its longevity. In a separate interview, Rubin revealed that the show's initial ratings were so poor that they believed it would not last more than a year. However, the freedom to experiment and be informal on air allowed the show's talent, particularly Rubin, to establish a deeper connection with their audience.

As an entertainment journalist, Rubin often focused on positive coverage and interviews, making him a favorite among publicists. Occasionally, his interviews attracted attention, such as his infamous 2014 remote interview with Samuel L. Jackson, where Rubin mistakenly confused the actor with Laurence Fishburne. The exchange became uncomfortable as Jackson humorously called out Rubin's mistake on camera.

However, Rubin's career was not without controversy. In 1993, his joke about veteran anchor Hal Fishman wearing a skirt for a co-anchor job in Spokane caused outrage and led to threats of resignation. Additionally, Rubin received a one-week suspension in 2004 for making satirical remarks about the show's temporary set. He also took on-air jabs at Los Angeles Times entertainment coverage and TV columnist Howard Rosenberg, proclaiming his ability to do a better job.

Regardless of the occasional run-ins and off-screen remarks, Rubin maintained an unflappable onscreen image as a television journalist who appreciated his access and loved his job. He will be remembered not only for his passion for Hollywood news and gossip but also for his contribution to the evolution of local TV news in Los Angeles.

The passing of Sam Rubin is mourned by his colleagues, fans, and the entertainment industry as a whole. His impact on KTLA and the morning news format will not be forgotten, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of broadcast journalism.