Dennis Richmond, the beloved anchor of San Francisco’s FOX affiliate KTVU-TV for 32 years, passed away on Wednesday in Grass Valley, California. He was 81.
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Friends shared with KTVU that Richmond died with his wife, Deborah, by his side. She held his hand until his final moments, they said.
Richmond, distinguished by his iconic mustache and unshakable calm, served as a cornerstone of the station from 1976 to 2008. Starting as a clerk, he rose through the ranks to become one of its most recognizable figures and a trailblazer as one of the first Black anchors on a major television newscast.
Richmond played a key role in some of KTVU’s most historic broadcasts, including the 1994 coverage of the O.J. Simpson chase, the Loma Prieta earthquake, and the tragic assassination of Harvey Milk. During his time at the station, KTVU’s “Ten O’Clock News” became the Bay Area’s most-watched nightly newscast, according to a statement from the station.
Richmond, a Rossford, Ohio native, served in the Army from 1961 to 1964 as part of the 82nd Airborne Division. After his military service, he earned a scholarship while working at KTVU, which enabled him to graduate from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism in 1969.
Colleagues Pay Tribute to Beloved Broadcaster Dennis Richmond
Mellynda Hartel, General Manager of KTVU, honored Richmond with a heartfelt tribute following the news of his passing.
“Dennis was a strong presence in the KTVU newsroom for decades, guiding the team and setting high standards for himself and his colleagues in everything they did,” Hartel said. “His impact is still felt in the KTVU newsroom today.”
KTVU Assistant News Director Darren Zulberti shared that Richmond initially guided him as a young journalist, serving as both a mentor and a source of inspiration. Over time, their professional relationship evolved, and Richmond became not just a mentor but a trusted friend.
“He always reminded me and those around him to treat the viewer with respect, reporting oftentimes difficult news in uncertain times with clarity, context and straightforward delivery,” Zulberti recalled.
When Richmond retired, he looked back on his career with pride, saying his greatest accomplishment was staying at one station and forming a strong, lasting bond with his audience.
Richmond is survived by his wife, his daughter, and his stepson.