The ubiquitous anchorman who became a permanent fixture of New York news
In short: Ernie Anastos didn't just report the news; he inhabited the skyline of New York City media. As the first Greek-American news anchor in the United States, his career spanned four major network stations and decades of history, from the fall of the Soviet Union to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Anastos's career was defined by a unique level of visibility across New York's media landscape. He served as a primary anchor for WABC (770 AM), UPN 9, ABC 7, CBS 2, and FOX 5. His reach extended beyond the news desk into broadcast ownership; he founded Ernie Anastos World Television, Inc., and led the Anastos Media Group, which managed radio stations across New York State and New England before selling several properties to Empire Broadcasting Corporation in 2012.
His professional trajectory was marked by significant transitions. After starting as a newsman in Boston, he moved to television in Rhode Island before joining WABC-TV in 1978. He famously navigated a brief period of displacement in 1982 when he was replaced by Tom Snyder, only to return to his former positions shortly after. In 2005, he signed a notable five-year, $10 million contract with WNYW-TV, where he eventually revamped the 6 p.m. news to emphasize live interviews and positive stories.
Despite his status as an industry titan—earning over 30 Emmy awards and the Edward R. Murrow Award—Anastos was also known for humanizing the medium. He championed 'uplifting stories' through programs like Positively Ernie and authored educational books for children. Even a high-profile on-air gaffe in 2009, where he accidentally used profanity during a weather lead-out, became a cultural footnote that appeared on Late Show with David Letterman, illustrating his enduring presence in the public consciousness.
Anastos's legacy was formally recognized by New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, who designated March 21 as Ernie Anastos Day. He held honorary doctorates from multiple institutions and was profiled in the International Who’s Who of Intellectuals, cementing his role as a foundational figure in American broadcast journalism.
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