Beloved Broadcaster Ernie Anastos Passes at 82…

ΕΑΝ ΠΡΟΤΙΜΑΤΕ ΕΛΛΗΝΙΚΑ ΠΑΤΗΣΤΕ ΤΗ ΣΗΜΑΙΑ ΣΤΟ ΚΑΤΩ ΜΕΡΟΣ ΤΗΣ ΟΘΟΝΗΣ

By Helleniscope’s Editorial Team

Ernie Anastos, one of the most recognizable faces in New York television news and a proud Greek-American voice in broadcasting, has passed away at 82.

For more than four decades, Anastos was a steady presence in the living rooms of millions of viewers across the New York metropolitan area. Known for his calm delivery, polished professionalism, and unmistakable voice, he became one of the defining anchors of New York local news.

Born in Nashua, New Hampshire, to a Greek family, Anastos maintained a strong connection to his heritage throughout his life. His career in journalism began in radio before he rose through the ranks of television news, eventually anchoring at nearly every major station in New York City.

Across the decades, his career moved through a remarkable path across the city’s major newsrooms:

• WABC-TV (1970s–early 1980s) – Anastos first gained wide recognition anchoring the Eyewitness News format that dominated New York ratings.
• WCBS-TV (mid-1980s–early 1990s) – He became a major presence at CBS 2, anchoring evening newscasts during a highly competitive era for local television news.
• WWOR-TV Channel 9 (1990s) – As lead anchor, he helped elevate the station’s news programming and continued building his reputation as one of the city’s most trusted journalists.
• FOX 5 New York – WNYW (2005–2020) – Anastos joined FOX 5 as lead anchor of the 10 p.m. news, where he spent the final and perhaps most visible chapter of his career.

During his long career, Anastos covered many of the most consequential moments in modern American history. New Yorkers turned to him during times of crisis and uncertainty, including the attacks of September 11, the death of Princess Diana, the passing of John F. Kennedy Jr., and many other major national and local events.

His work earned him more than 30 Emmy Awards, as well as numerous honors recognizing his contributions to broadcast journalism. Colleagues frequently described him as a mentor, a gentleman in the newsroom, and a journalist who deeply believed in the responsibility to inform the public.

Like many longtime broadcasters, Anastos also had moments that became part of television lore. One of the most widely remembered occurred during a live broadcast when he jokingly used a colorful phrase while teasing his sportscaster — a moment that quickly spread across the internet and became a viral clip. Rather than harming his reputation, the incident became a reminder that even the most polished anchors are human, and Anastos himself later laughed about the moment.

Beyond the newsroom, Ernie Anastos was also deeply connected to the Greek-American community. He was a familiar presence at community events across New York and often used his platform to highlight Hellenic heritage and the contributions of Greek Americans.

One of the traditions closest to his heart was the New York Greek Independence Day Parade on Fifth Avenue. Over the years, Anastos frequently participated in the celebration, attending events leading up to the parade, supporting Greek organizations, and helping bring visibility to the historic annual gathering of the Greek diaspora. His presence at the parade and related celebrations reflected his pride in his heritage and his commitment to maintaining strong ties with the community.

Anastos also appeared at numerous Greek-American cultural and philanthropic events, lending his voice and reputation to causes that promoted education, cultural preservation, and community service. For many Greek Americans in the New York area, seeing him on television was a source of pride — a reminder that a member of their community had become one of the city’s most respected journalists.

In later years, Anastos remained active in media and public life. After leaving the anchor desk, he hosted the radio program “Positively Ernie,” where he spoke about leadership, community, and personal growth.

Ernie Anastos leaves behind a remarkable legacy in American journalism and in the Greek-American community. For generations of viewers, his voice became synonymous with credibility, stability, and the daily rhythm of New York life.

He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, and by the countless viewers and colleagues who remember him as one of the great figures of New York broadcasting.

May his memory be eternal.

March 13, 2026, n.stamatakis@aol.com   www.helleniscope.com

DISCLAIMER: The views and statements expressed in this article constitute constitutionally protected opinions of this author.

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