Veteran New York television journalist and prominent Greek American, Ernie Anastos, has died at the age of 82 on March 12, 2026, after developing pneumonia, according to multiple reports. The late Ernie Anastos was more than a legendary New York news anchor. He was a storyteller, a mentor, and a proud Greek American whose life and career reflected a deep commitment to integrity, faith, family, and community.

One of the most recognizable figures in local broadcasting for more than four decades, Anastos was a familiar presence on television screens across the New York metropolitan area. His career included several roles at major stations, including WABC, WCBS , WOR and Fox 5, where he anchored evening newscasts and helped shape the landscape of local broadcast journalism, and the last years on WABC77 Radio with his show Positively Ernie, where he featured positive stories.

Ernie was widely respected and loved in the industry, he received more than 30 Emmy Awards and numerous honors for excellence in journalism, including a Lifetime Achievement Emmy and the Edward Murrow Award.

In a memorable interview on Kalimera USA with host Yanna Darilis on New Greek TV, Anastos reflected on a broadcasting career that spanned decades and helped shape the landscape of television journalism in New York City.

Throughout the conversation, Anastos spoke with warmth about his Greek heritage and the values that shaped his life. Raised in a close-knit Greek American household, he credited his parents, grandparents, and church community for instilling the principles that guided him throughout his career. His grandfather, among the earliest Greek Orthodox priests ordained in America, was a profound influence. From him and his family, Anastos learned the importance of philotimo—a deep sense of honor, respect, and responsibility toward others.

“These values,” he explained, “are what gave me the enthusiasm and the light that people often talk about.”

Anastos also shared how his love for broadcasting began early. As a child, he would sit under the kitchen table with a radio pressed to his ear, mimicking announcers and imagining himself behind the microphone. By the age of 16, he had landed his first radio job, launching a career that would keep him on the air for decades.

Over the years, Anastos interviewed world leaders and historic figures including Fidel Castro, Jimmy Carter, George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Desmond Tutu. Yet despite the remarkable list of interviews and global events he covered, Anastos often emphasized that the most meaningful moments in life are not defined by fame or awards, but by the people who love and support us.

Among the most difficult stories he covered was the tragedy of the September 11 attacks. Reporting from New York during that painful time left a lasting emotional impact on him, and he often spoke about the resilience of the city and the strength of the people who endured such loss.

Away from the newsroom, Anastos described himself as a devoted family man who cherished time at home. He spoke fondly about cooking Greek dishes, playing music, singing Frank Sinatra songs, and passing down traditions to his children. He also maintained spiritual practices that reflected his deep Orthodox Christian faith, including blessing his home with incense—a ritual he shared with his family.

Throughout the interview, Anastos returned repeatedly to a message he often shared with young people: do not chase success—seek significance.

“Ask yourself what makes your life meaningful,” he said. “Be someone others can learn from.”

His final message reflected the optimism that defined his character. Quoting an ancient Greek sentiment, Anastos encouraged viewers to live with a youthful heart and an open spirit.

“I wish to die young,” he said with a smile, “as late in life as possible.”

For generations of viewers in New York and beyond, Ernie Anastos was not only a trusted voice in journalism but also a shining example of humility, faith, and the enduring strength of Greek heritage. His legacy continues to inspire journalists, communities, and young people who look to him as proof that a life guided by values can truly make a difference.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv2wAl8hsPI

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