Hollywood Stars Mourn The Loss Of Entertainment Reporter Sam Rubin

The death of longtime entertainment reporter Sam Rubin has sent shockwaves across Hollywood, with A-list stars such as Ben Stiller and Octavia Spencer paying tribute to the iconic journalist.

Rubin’s death was announced on Friday by KTLA, who shared a lengthy statement expressing heartbreak at the unfortunate loss of the 64-year-old.

Rubin was known and beloved by many in Hollywood for his warmth and charismatic approach to his work and interactions with the stars. So it’s no surprise that his sudden death has elicited sadness from some of Hollywood’s biggest names as they pay tribute to the journalist on social media.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), actor Ben Stiller wrote, “So sad and sorry to hear of Sam Rubin’s passing. Consummate pro. 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. We have lost him way too soon. Sending love to his family.”

Actress Octavia Spencer also sent her condolences, stating, “So sad to learn that we’ve lost Sam Rubin. It was always a pleasure to see him and to be in his presence. My condolences to his family and fans.”

Actor Jerry O’Connell tweeted, “Sam Rubin was a LEGEND. Rest In Peace KING.”

Actress Marlee Matlin expressed sadness at the news of Rubin’s death, writing, “I am shocked and saddened by the news of Sam Rubin’s untimely passing. If you look up “kind” you would see his picture. RIP, Sam.. you will definitely be missed by me.”

“Designated Survivor” star Kiefer Sutherland reminisced on his last time talking to Rubin in his heartfelt tribute.

He wrote on X: “I last talked to Sam Rubin at the Critics Choice Awards this year. His smile and his genuine excitement for all things Hollywood ever present. In nervous situations he was a buoy of kindness. I will miss him.”

Actor Greg Grunberg also shared his condolences as he expressed shock at the death of Rubin.

“I am numb and shocked at the news of my friend Sam Rubin passing,” Grunberg shared on X. “He cared about everyone that he met and always took the time to smile and ask about family and was the best at what he did. I can’t believe this news. So devastating and sad. Thinking about his beautiful family right now.”

Maria Shriver also paid tribute to Rubin with a short message. She wrote, “This is heartbreaking. Sam Rubin was a Los Angeles institution and so full of life. He was great at his job—which he loved—but most importantly he was always kind and gracious. Sending love to his family.”

According to TMZ, Rubin died from a heart attack. Sources close to the situation told the news outlet that the reporter passed away after being rushed to a hospital in Los Angeles.

The sources further claimed that Rubin had a heart attack at his home, where he eventually went into cardiac arrest before being taken to the hospital.

Morning anchor Frank Buckley expressed his disbelief over Rubin’s sudden death, stating, “We don’t know what happened, but it was sudden.”

Eric Spillman, who phoned in to share his grief, emphasized, “I can’t believe we are reporting this — it is such a shock.”

The television station Rubin worked at for the longest time, KTLA, confirmed the heartbreaking news of his death on social media.

Their statement read, “KTLA 5 is profoundly saddened to report the death of Sam Rubin. Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world, and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades.”

They added, “His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him. Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most. Our thoughts are with Sam’s family during this difficult time.”

Rubin became a fixture on the KTLA Morning News team in 1991, joining the show about six months after its debut.

His career was marked by multiple news Emmy wins, Golden Mike Awards, and a lifetime achievement recognition from the Southern California Broadcasters Association. The Los Angeles Press Club also honored him as the Best Entertainment Reporter.

Beyond KTLA, Rubin was a regular contributor to KNX-AM, delivering entertainment news updates while frequently appearing on the BBC and providing media reports for radio and TV outlets in Australia.

Additionally, Rubin was a founding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, the largest group of film and TV critics in the U.S. with over 200 members, and was instrumental in the establishment of the Critics’ Choice Movie Awards in 1996 and hosted the 2013 event.

Rest in peace, Sam Rubin.