Longtime Entertainment Reporter Sam Rubin's Cause Of Death Revealed

Beloved KTLA entertainment reporter Sam Rubin passed away at 64, leaving colleagues and fans in shock.

Rubin, who will be remembered for his warmth and professionalism, had a career that spanned decades, earning him numerous awards and accolades.

Sam Rubin Dies At 64

KTLA announced Rubin's passing on social media in a heartfelt message: "KTLA 5 is profoundly saddened to report the death of Sam Rubin."

The statement continued: "Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world, and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. 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."

Henry Winkler, a frequent guest of Rubin's, called in from an airport to express his condolences.

"It's the most horrible thing," he said. "Two things I know: He made you feel special every single time [he interviewed you], and I am not the only person who felt that special warmth."

Sam Rubin Died From A Heart Attack

According to TMZ, Rubin died from a heart attack. Sources close to the situation told the news outlet that the reporter passed away after being rushed to a hospital in Los Angeles.

The sources further claimed that Rubin had a heart attack at his home where he eventually went into cardiac arrest before being taken to the hospital.

Morning anchor Frank Buckley expressed his disbelief over Rubin's sudden death, stating, "We don't know what happened, but it was sudden."

Eric Spillman, who phoned in to share his grief emphasized, "I can't believe we are reporting this — it is such a shock."

Fans Pay Their Tribute To Sam Rubin: 'He Was The Best'

After the news broke, fans flooded social media with heartfelt tributes. One fan expressed, "Such sad news. I can't imagine being you guys right now and having to go live on air with the news. I'm gonna go be sad now."

Another reflected, "This is tragic and like losing a friend. Anyone that lives in Los Angeles and works in entertainment industry knew Sam."

A third wrote, "RIP Sam, he was the best. Always so fun to watch and so lighthearted. Another great one has left us too soon. Condolences to his family and the KTLA team."

"Wow.... He was always so funny. One of my favorites on TV, especially the early morning KTLA team... what a hand in glove fit they all have been for so long. RIP to an LA legend and entertaining host. It won't be the same," a fourth commented.

Sam Rubin's Long And Storied Career At KTLA

Rubin became a fixture on the KTLA Morning News team in 1991, joining the show about six months after its debut. His career was marked by multiple news Emmy wins, Golden Mike Awards, and a lifetime achievement recognition from the Southern California Broadcasters Association. The Los Angeles Press Club also honored him as the Best Entertainment Reporter.

Beyond KTLA, Rubin was a regular contributor to KNX-AM, delivering entertainment news updates, while frequently appearing on the BBC and providing media reports for radio and TV outlets in Australia.

Additionally, Rubin was a founding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, the largest group of film and TV critics in the U.S. with over 200 members, and was instrumental in the establishment of the Critics' Choice Movie Awards in 1996 and hosted the 2013 event.

In 2021, Rubin aimed to represent broadcasters on SAG-AFTRA's Los Angeles board of directors as a candidate for the MembershipFirst party alongside Matthew Modine and Joely Fisher. His campaign highlighted concerns regarding changes to the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan's eligibility criteria.

Sam Rubin Was An Author And Philanthropist

He was also the proprietor of SRE, Inc., a television production company responsible for over 200 hours of programming for broadcast and cable networks. This includes several "Live From" red carpet shows and 120 episodes of "Hollywood Uncensored with Sam Rubin," a talk show that aired on Reelz.

Besides his work in television, Rubin was a published author of two books, and his writing has been featured in print and online across the globe. He maintained a strong international presence, frequently appearing on BBC television and radio in the UK and contributing regularly to Triple M radio and the Channel 9 network in Australia.

Among his charitable pursuits, he was a steadfast advocate for the annual Bay to Bay bike ride, which raises funds for multiple sclerosis research by spanning the distance between Orange County and San Diego.

He is survived by his wife, Leslie, and their four children.