Sam Rubin, a veteran Californian entertainment reporter who also worked for ITV, has died at the age of 64.
Los Angeles TV station KTLA called the reporter “a giant in the local news industry”, as they paid tribute.
“His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him,” the station added.
“Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most.”
The US veteran journalist “regularly broadcast live” into ITV’s This Morning over the years.
This Morning said they would air a tribute for Rubin on Monday.
“He woke up Tinseltown every day for decades with his likeable charm and knowledgeable take on the movie world, he was on first name terms with the stars and became affectionately known as ‘Hollywood Sam’. We will miss him,” This Morning said in a statement on X.
“There will be a tribute to Sam on Monday’s show, but in the meantime, we send our condolences to his wife Leslie, their four children and Sam’s colleagues at KTLA.”
Sam Rubin on air for KTLA. Pic: AP
Among some of the famous faces paying tribute was US actor Ben Stiller, who described him as a “consummate pro”.
“So sad and sorry to hear of Sam Rubin’s passing”, he said.
The Zoolander star said: “I did my first interview with him in something like ’93, and countless times over the years. He loved actors and movies.
“He made everyone feel comfortable and it was always fun and easy. He was an institution.”
American actress Yvette Nicole Brown, who starred in Community and The Odd Couple, also said: “Sam was a friend. I enjoyed all the times I got to visit him at KTLA.”
Sam Rubin at the Emmy’s. Pic: AP
Canadian and American actor Ryan Reynolds added: “Even if I was on my 85th interview that day, I was always happy to see Sam.
“Even if HE was on his 85th interview that day, he always brought genuine kindness, curiosity and an outside the box question.”
Born in San Diego in 1960, Rubin joined KTLA in 1991 and won several awards over his 33-year stint with the broadcaster.
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He was a multiple-Emmy winner, received the Golden Mike Award for best entertainment reporter and a lifetime achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association, and was named best entertainment reporter by the Los Angeles Press Club.
KTLA anchor Lynette Romero wrote in a lengthy tribute that she “didn’t believe it. It had to be a mistake. But it was true”, following his death.
“I’ve known Sam since I moved to LA 25 years ago. And there are so many things I could say about him,” she said.
“Yes, he was incredibly good at his job. He loved being on TV. He adored his family. He cherished his friends. He was kind and thoughtful and had the most beautiful blue eyes.”