Dennis Richmond, the iconic KTVU anchor who became a trailblazer for Black journalists in the United States, has passed away at the age of 81.
The beloved Bay Area news figure died on February 5, 2025, in Grass Valley, California, with his wife, Deborah, by his side, according to KTVU.
Richmond's career in journalism spanned over four decades, making him one of the most recognizable faces in Bay Area news. He became a pioneering figure as one of the first Black anchors at a major market TV newscast in the United States, breaking barriers in an industry that, at the time, had little representation of African Americans in high-profile roles.
A Lifelong Journey from Clerk to Anchor
Born in Rossford, Ohio, Richmond grew up with a passion for storytelling, a drive that would propel him to great heights in the world of journalism. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1964 with the prestigious 82nd Airborne Division, Richmond’s journey into the world of media began when he joined KTVU as a clerk. It was at KTVU where his determination and talent quickly became evident. In 1976, just a few years after joining the station, he made history by becoming one of the first Black anchors in a major U.S. market.
Richmond’s career at KTVU stretched across several decades, and his commanding voice, authoritative presence, and signature thick mustache became synonymous with trustworthy news delivery for Northern California viewers. His steady hand at the anchor desk allowed him to be a guiding force for his colleagues and a mentor to countless others in the newsroom.
Covering Major Historical Events
Throughout his extensive career, Richmond was at the forefront of some of the most significant events in Bay Area history. His reporting on high-stakes stories such as the 1976 kidnapping of Patricia Hearst and the tragic assassinations of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk in 1978 cemented his role as a respected journalist in the region.
One of the defining moments of his career came in 1989 when Richmond co-anchored the coverage of the Loma Prieta earthquake live from the KTVU parking lot. His ability to calmly and effectively report in the midst of chaos became an iconic moment for the station and for Bay Area residents who relied on his steady presence during one of the region’s most devastating natural disasters.
Richmond also reported on the destructive Oakland Hills firestorm in 1991, a catastrophe that gripped the region. His compassion and professionalism during these trying times helped to cement his status as a key figure in local journalism.
A Legacy of Excellence and Influence
When Richmond retired in 2008, just five days before turning 65, he left behind a remarkable legacy of journalistic excellence. His career, which spanned more than 40 years, made him a household name and a beacon of professionalism. In reflecting on his long tenure at KTVU, Richmond shared that staying with one station for the duration of his career was his proudest achievement, stating that it allowed him to build lasting relationships with viewers and colleagues alike.
In an interview shortly before his retirement, Richmond was quoted by The San Francisco Chronicle as saying, “I feel like I’ve done my part in making sure the job is done right,” and his colleagues agreed. KTVU General Manager Mellynda Hartel expressed the deep impact Richmond had on the station: "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. His impact is still felt in the KTVU newsroom today."
Health Struggles and Final Days
Though the cause of Dennis Richmond's death has not been publicly confirmed, it’s known that he faced several health challenges in his later years. He had suffered a heart attack in the past and battled prostate cancer about a decade ago. Despite these health struggles, Richmond remained an active presence in the Bay Area community until the end.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah, as well as his daughter and stepson. The loss of Richmond leaves a void in Bay Area journalism, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of reporters and anchors.
A Pioneering Legacy Remembered
Dennis Richmond’s passing marks the end of an era for Bay Area news. As one of the first Black anchors in a major U.S. market, he paved the way for diversity and representation in the television news industry. His contributions to journalism extend beyond his own reporting, as he helped mentor and shape the careers of many who followed in his footsteps.
In his decades-long career, Richmond embodied the professionalism, integrity, and dedication that defines great journalism. His work covered some of the most transformative events in San Francisco and the broader Bay Area, and his absence leaves a lasting impact on the region’s media landscape.
Richmond's death, at 81, comes as a reminder of the trail he blazed for Black journalists in the U.S., as well as the high standards he set for his colleagues. He is remembered not only for his iconic career but also for his role in breaking down barriers and shaping the future of television journalism.
Dennis Richmond will always be remembered as a pioneer, a mentor, and a voice of authority in the Bay Area. His contributions to the world of news will never be forgotten.
