Ernie Anastos has passed away at the age of 82
New York (March, 13, 2026) — Ernie Anastos was a household name to many New Yorkers who worked for numerous major networks throughout his lengthy career.
Legendary news anchor, Ernie Anastos has passed away at the age of 82. ABC7 New York reported that his wife, Kelly Anastos, shared that he died on the early morning of March 12, 2026, at Northern Westchester Hospital due to complications from pneumonia. Ernie was a beloved figure in New York broadcasting, with a career spanning over 40 years.
Ernie was a beloved figure in New York and among other anchors and a trusted voice throughout his career. His wife, Kelly, confirmed to CBS News that he died early Thursday morning at Northern Westchester Hospital. His experience included working at WCBS, WABC, Fox 5, and Channel 9.
Among the major events he covered in his career were the deaths of Princess Diana and John F. Kennedy Jr, plus the 9-11 terrorist attacks and the COVID-19 pandemic. “If there was a Mount Rushmore for news anchors in New York, Ernie would be one of the four faces,” said CBS news anchor Tony Aiello.
Throughout his time on the air, Ernie’s work earned him over 30 Emmy nominations, including a lifetime Emmy. He was also got the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for broadcast excellence.
By all accounts, CBS could use someone like him on their anchor roster right about now. In December, the appointment of Tony Dokoupil as an anchor for the network was met with widespread criticism. Many have deemed that appointment as a joke and an insult to those who’ve paid their dues in the industry.
Ernie was married to Kelly in November 1968. The couple had two children: a son, Phillip, and a daughter, Nina. They also had four grandchildren. Ernie was 82.
Ernie Anastos, the Hall-of-Fame television news anchor, and Kelly Anastos tied the knot on November 10, 1968. Their marriage was officiated by her father, Reverend Spyridon Coutros. Ernie and Kelly’s wedding united two Greek-American lives, who stayed together for 57 long years until his passing in March 2026. The couple had distinct individual roles, with him serving as the breadwinner and Kelly managing the household. The couple was noted for their shared leadership in both private family matters and public philanthropic efforts.
