Dennis Richmond, the longtime news anchor of KTVU, has passed away at the age of 81. He died peacefully at his home in Grass Valley, California, with his wife, Deborah, by his side. Richmond, a legendary journalist, was a trusted face on Bay Dennis Richmond, the longtime news anchor of KTVU, has passed away at the age of 81. He died peacefully at his home in GraArea televisions for over three decades.
A Legacy of Excellence in Journalism
Dennis Richmond was a pioneer in the world of news broadcasting. He joined KTVU in 1968 as a clerk-typist and worked his way up to become one of the country's first Black journalists to anchor a major market newscast. From 1976 to 2008, Richmond delivered the news with a calm and authoritative presence that made him a household name.
His no-nonsense approach, deep baritone voice, and unwavering commitment to accuracy earned him the respect and trust of viewers. Richmond’s dedication to journalism made him one of the most beloved news anchors in the Bay Area.
Health Struggles in Recent Years
In late 2024, Richmond suffered a heart attack and a fall. His longtime co-anchor, Julie Haener, who retired in June 2023, visited him in the hospital. She recalled his strong spirit, saying, “He was a fighter. He held on for as long as he could.” Richmond’s passing is a significant loss for the journalism community and those who grew up watching him.
A Career Marked by Milestones
Richmond covered some of the most significant events in Bay Area history. One of his most notable moments came during the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. His ability to remain calm and provide crucial updates during the disaster solidified his reputation as a trusted journalist. He once said, “People are going to look at you for direction. If you are excited and nervous, they are going to be excited and nervous. You have to be calm.”
His influence extended beyond the newsroom. Richmond was regularly named the most popular news anchor in viewer polls and set a high standard for professionalism in broadcast journalism.
Life After Retirement
After retiring in 2008, Dennis Richmond moved to Grass Valley, where he enjoyed a quieter life. However, he made occasional appearances on KTVU, including a special segment in 2017 for a breast cancer awareness fundraiser. He also surprised Haener during her final broadcast in 2023, showcasing the deep friendships he had built throughout his career.
Reflecting on his career in a 2010 interview, Richmond expressed gratitude for his time in journalism, stating, “I had a marvelous career and outstanding colleagues whom I still love.”
Tributes Pour In for Dennis Richmond
Following the news of his passing, tributes from colleagues, public figures, and viewers flooded social media. Former Berkeley mayor and current state Senator Jesse Arreguin wrote on X, “Like so many people in the Bay Area, I fondly remember growing up watching Dennis Richmond on the news. He set the standard for journalistic excellence and integrity, inspiring generations of journalists. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.”
His former co-anchors Barbara Simpson and Elaine Corral also expressed their condolences. Sadly, his longtime co-anchor Leslie Griffith passed away in 2022, marking the end of an era in Bay Area news broadcasting.
A Lasting Impact
Dennis Richmond was more than just a news anchor; he was a voice of trust and reliability for the Bay Area community. His legacy will continue to inspire journalists and viewers alike. His contributions to journalism and his unwavering dedication to the truth will be remembered for generations.
