Since the sudden death of KTLA's Sam Rubin on Friday, the station has been memorializing its veteran entertainment reporter. On Monday morning that included an appearance by Rubin's son, Colby.
The 16-year-old visited the set of “Morning News” and talked about his father while sitting in his father's usual chair.
Colby said he would make fun of his father: “I told him, 'Nobody knows you.' Nobody knows who you are.'” But since the death of his father from cardiac arrest at their West Valley home, the teen said there has been an outpouring of support.
“People I didn't even know have reached out,” he said.
Colby read a touching message he had written to his late father: “I love you so much. … You were the light in every room.”
Colby said his father was “always there,” for Boy Scout meetings, trips to Disney and chats during car rides, where he heard about his father's passion for his work: “about how you could wake up every day.” days and do what he loved.” ”
Rubin became an integral member of KTLA's “Morning News” shortly after its launch in 1991. Rubin told The Times in 2011 that, at first, the show's ratings were dismal: “There was a feeling that no one was looking. … There was a tremendous freedom in letting go.”
A cheerful chemistry developed between anchors and reporters, and Rubin became known for his cheerful, easy-going interviews. Those qualities, as well as the focus on local news and events, caused the show to gain popularity among Los Angeles viewers.
Outside of Rubin's work, former KTLA anchor Carlos Amezcua said his former colleague's life centered around family. He was the father of four children.
An emotional Colby said Monday that his circumstances were “surreal.” In his message to his late father, he said: “You will never pick me up from school again, we will never be able to ride bikes, we will never argue about food, you will not be at my wedding.”
Looking older than his years, the teenager advised: “Hug your parents, your siblings, your friends, every day. Every day.”
“I had more father in 16 years than some people have in their entire life,” Colby said, “and I'm very grateful.”
Times senior writer Greg Braxton contributed to this report.
