One of Sam Rubin’s first entertainment segments
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Sam Rubin has always been Los Angeles’ entertainment reporter, even in high school.
In footage sent to KTLA, Rubin was part of the “Student News” broadcast in the late 1970s, when he attended high school.
“Student News” was a television production prepared by students of LAUSD, broadcasting in 1977. Sporting his gentle candor, Rubin’s signature inflection can be heard in every delivered line.
Rubin was joined by other student journalists from high schools across Los Angeles and it was sponsored by groups like the City Wide Students Affairs Council.
Located in Sawtelle, University High School has produced many successful alumni.
Some notable alumni include Forest Whitaker, along with legendary filmmaker and “Godfather” director Francis Ford Coppola.
Sam Rubin in high school during a taping of “Student News” in 1977 (Rick Gerber). Sam Rubin in high school during a taping of “Student News” in 1977 (Rick Gerber). Sam Rubin in high school during a taping of “Student News” in 1977 (Rick Gerber). Sam Rubin in high school during a taping of “Student News” in 1977 (Rick Gerber). Sam Rubin in high school during a taping of “Student News” in 1977 (Rick Gerber).
In perhaps one of his first on-camera entertainment segments, Rubin highlighted the release of “Star Wars,” the science-fiction epic.
“Possibly the only thing wrong with ‘Star Wars’ is its $4 admission fee,” Rubin said in the high school news production. “This may be reasonable for a movie of Star Wars’ stature but it seems $4 admission charges are now becoming the standard of the industry.”
“Star Wars,” released in 1977, was a massive commercial success. It grossed approximately $775 million worldwide during its initial theatrical run and became one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
Rubin began his time at KTLA in 1991, winning countless Emmys and a Golden Mike for Best Entertainment Reporter.
He also received a lifetime achievement award from the Southern California Broadcasters Association.
Born in San Diego, Rubin moved to Los Angeles when he was a child, attending University High School.
He graduated from Occidental College in 1982, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in American studies and rhetoric.
Sam Rubin died on May 10, as the entire city mourned his loss, with tributes from countless Hollywood A-listers and iconic locations around the Southland.
“Sam Rubin, you will be missed,” Tom Hanks said in an Instagram post. “A good guy, that Sam.”
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