The Passing of Sam Rubin

SAG-AFTRA mourns the passing of Los Angeles Local Board member Sam Rubin who was elected to service in 2021 and also served as the Chair of the Los Angeles Local Broadcast Steering Committee. Rubin died May 10 at the age of 64.

A long-time union supporter, the broadcaster participated in recent bargaining with KTLA and Nexstar for the 2022-2025 contract.

For over three decades, Rubin graced the KTLA 5 Morning News, leaving an indelible mark with his entertainment industry expertise and infectious personality. His co-hosts fondly remember his positivity and humor. While his physical presence may be gone, his influence will continue to resonate.

During his career, he won a number of Emmys, a Golden Mike for best entertainment reporter, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association.

“Sam Rubin was a bright light,” said SAG-AFTRA Secretary-Treasurer Joely Fisher. “The authentic joy he got out of doing a job he loved so much was infectious. He always championed whoever sat in the seat for an interview. He truly supported me in my career from the very start. Anything I was doing, he wanted to know about. We all made a beeline for him on every red carpet. He was an entertainment icon, and I can't believe he's gone. When Lisa Ann Walter and I called him to ask if he would like to come into union service, he laughed. ‘What would I be doing? Making the lives and contracts for the broadcast community better?’ He jumped in, full throttle. His proudest moments were as husband and father. He was my friend…Sam."

We send our condolences to Rubin’s wife, four children, colleagues and friends.