Legendary broadcast journalist Chuck Scarborough announced his departure from NBC 4 New York, marking the end of an extraordinary era in local television news. After more than five decades behind the anchor desk, Scarborough will step down from his daily duties on December 12, 2023.
The veteran newscaster made the announcement during Thursday's 6 p.m. broadcast, telling viewers, "The time has come to pass the torch." His farewell comes exactly 50 years, eight months, and 17 days after he first joined WNBC in 1974.
Throughout his remarkable tenure, Scarborough became a trusted presence in New York homes, anchoring both the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts from Studio 6B at 30 Rockefeller Center. In 2016, he stepped away from the late-night broadcast but continued co-anchoring the evening news alongside Natalie Pasquarella.
Reflecting on his historic career, Scarborough expressed deep appreciation for his viewers: "Our WNBC viewers welcomed me into their homes for more than 50 years, trusting me to present the news free of any agenda, faithful to the fundamental principles of accuracy, objectivity and fairness."
Before making his mark in New York, Scarborough honed his craft at various stations across the country, including stops in Biloxi, Hattiesburg, Atlanta, and Boston. His commitment to journalistic excellence earned him recognition as the longest-serving local television news anchor in New York City's broadcast market.
While stepping away from daily broadcasts, Scarborough will maintain ties with NBC 4, contributing to special reports and station projects. The network plans to announce his 6 p.m. news anchor successor at a later date.
Earlier this year, NBC 4 celebrated Scarborough's golden anniversary with several commemorative events, including a special Empire State Building lighting ceremony in his honor. The milestone was also recognized on TODAY, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and in major publications.
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