The cause of death of beloved KTLA and Hollywood Uncensored host Sam Rubin has been confirmed by a coroner months after his passing.
The 64-year-old tragically passed away in May. According to a new medical report, he died of a heart attack after his coronary artery became severely blocked.
Rubin was rushed to the hospital from his Los Angeles home just hours after hosting his regular Hollywood news column that morning.
The multiple Emmy Award winner was a well-known figure in the West Coast news industry, writing about entertainment, movies and TV for KTLA since 1991.
Veteran reporter Sam Rubin died in Los Angeles in May at age 64
Throughout his decades-long career, Rubin has interviewed some of the world’s most famous faces, including Mariah Carey, primarily through his show Hollywood Uncensored with Sam Rubin.
He hosted 120 episodes of the show and also wrote about entertainment news and red carpets.
He is survived by his wife Leslie and their four children. In a moving tribute, KTLA said he will be remembered for his “laughter, charm and caring personality.”
“Sam was a force in local news and entertainment, and a fixture on Los Angeles morning television for decades,” the network said after his death.
“Sam was a loving husband and father, the roles he cherished most. Our thoughts are with Sam’s family at this difficult time.”
Rubin has interviewed some of the world’s most famous celebrities during his career
He was survived by his wife Leslie (pictured together) and four children
Hours before his death, Rubin shared his very last post on social media, promoting his final interview.
He spoke to actress Jane Seymour about her new Netflix film Irish Wish, and Rubin featured the two together in an Instagram post.
After sharing the post, a number of former interviewees wanted to pay tribute to the presenter and remember their time with him on television.
Actress Selma Blair mused, “You were my first interview on the radio, and one of my last. I feel so lucky to have seen you and known you for so many years. Oh Sam! This is a sad moment, to know that you are not here on earth. Your memory will be a blessing. Another beloved favorite! Thank you for your humanity.”
While actress Laura Marano wrote: “This really doesn’t feel real… Sam, you will be missed so, so much. The morning news won’t be the same without you.”
Actress Daphne Zuniga said: ‘Lots of love to you, his family and loved ones. Sam Rubin always made me happy!’
A few hours earlier, he posted his last interview with actress Jane Seymour on his social media pages
The veteran reporter died of a heart attack at his LA home at age 64
ENews presenter Jason Kennedy wrote: “We all loved you Sam,” and entertainment reporter Liam McEwan said: “Rest in peace brother. We will miss you on the carpets.”
Seymour also posted a tribute with a photo of them together from the interview.
She wrote: “It’s hard to believe I was on @samontv just yesterday. I’m heartbroken to hear of his passing. He was always kind, cheerful and always willing to help with any project I worked on. You will be missed Sam.”
Perry Sook, chairman and CEO of Nexstar, called Rubin an icon and a beloved member.
“Sam was an icon in Los Angeles and the entertainment industry and was a beloved member of our Nexstar Nation. My prayers are with his family and the KTLA family as we mourn his passing. He will be missed,” he said.
Rubin has received multiple Emmys, a Golden Mic Award for Outstanding Entertainment Reporter, and a lifetime achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association.
He was also named Best Entertainment Reporter by the Los Angeles Press Club.
In 2013, Rubin received the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s Impact Award for his exceptional integrity in his journalism. He has also supported several organizations, including the MS 150 Bay to Bike Tour, as well as schools and literacy programs in LA.
