Tony Valdez, a pioneering journalist and the first Latino on-air reporter for a major TV station in Los Angeles, has died at the age of 77. He passed away at his home after suffering from end-stage kidney failure. Valdez played an instrumental role in breaking the color barrier for Latino journalists in Los Angeles, serving as a co-anchor, reporter, producer, and editor for more than 35 years at KTTV Fox 11. Known for his dedication to social issues, Valdez made the community a better place with his coverage and compassion, according to Fox 11’s acting news director, Pete Wilgoren.
Valdez was born in Texas and grew up in Southern California. He served in the US Army during the Vietnam War before starting his journalism career. Valdez worked for KCET and KTLA TV stations and La Opiñion newspaper before joining KTTV in 1981. Throughout his career, he covered some of the largest and most significant news events in the city history, including the OJ Simpson arrest and trial, the Watts Riots, and the Night Stalker.
Valdez also hosted the crime series “L.A.’s Most Wanted” for 27 years. In his free time, he was a talented jazz saxophonist and black and white photographer. An active philanthropist, Valdez donated his time to charitable projects and chaired the 8 Ball Emergency Fund for Journalists, an organization that provides support for reporters in need.
The death of Tony Valdez is a great loss for the journalism community in Southern California. His pioneering work as a Latino journalist, his dedication to social issues, and his talent as a storyteller left a lasting impact on the city and the people he covered. Survivors include his son and three grandchildren. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the LA Conservancy or the 8 Ball Foundation.
In conclusion, Tony Valdez was a trailblazing journalist who broke the color barrier for Latino reporters in Los Angeles. His coverage and compassion made the community a better place, and his philanthropic work inspired many. Valdez will be deeply missed, but his legacy as a talented journalist and an advocate for social justice will live on.
