Hal Fishman passes away *

The face of KTLA news died this morning at home, the station announced. Fishman was 75 and had suffered from colon and liver cancer and an infection. He last anchored the news on July 30.

Fishman began to anchor Channel 5's nightly news in 1975. The station's story says that makes him the longest-running anchor in television history. He also was managing editor of Prime News. Born in Brooklyn, he was an assistant professor of political science at Cal State Los Angeles in 1960 when KCOP Channel 13 asked him to teach an on-air class in politics during the summer the Democratic National Convention was in Los Angeles. He worked out.

As a pilot Fishman held twelve world aviation records for speed and altitude. He is survived by his wife, Nolie, and his son David.

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* Statement: From the Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists:

We are deeply saddened by the death of long-time KTLA anchor Hal Fishman. Hal was an icon in Los Angeles news, and his depth of knowledge and presence is unparalleled. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and colleagues at KTLA. News in Los Angeles has lost an important, irreplaceable voice.

Previously:
Hal Fishman hospitalized
Colon cancer for Hal Fishman