Jim Vargas, 78, a TV star, has sadly passed away. The well-known journalist who covered politics and public affairs had a four-decade career in journalism and worked for ABC7 for 20 years.
California native Vargas passed away on January 14th. His death has not yet been revealed.
For his coverage of the abduction of American actress Patty Hearst, the devoted broadcaster won an Emmy award in 1974 along with Steve David and Bob Marshall. The well-known journalist, who retired in 2011, also received a Peabody Award along with his team for their coverage of the California earthquake of 1989, Lorna Prieta. He also held positions at KRON and KTVU in addition to ABC.
After covering the political unrest and riots of the late 1960s and early 1970s in America, Vargas’ family said he wanted to pursue a career in broadcasting.
The star’s broadcasting colleagues have paid tribute following the news of his passing.
Former KGO-TV reporter Jim Jeschke once described him as the “ultimate all-rounder.” He had the ability and skill to cover everything.
From 1970 onward, we worked together. He was a trustworthy reporter, friend, and colleague. He will be missed. ‘”
Vargas was described as their closest friend by Carol Ivy and Ed Leslie, both of whom were former KGO-TV reporters.
We will miss him greatly and have been in touch with him until recently, they continued.
Shelley Kilburn, the editor of Assignment, also paid tribute to Vargas for treating her “with respect and dignity.”
He backed me with assignments, news gathering, and directions on social media to prevent him and the crew from getting lost in the field.
That trust was present. He was a truly professional newscaster who was incredibly helpful in putting together the necessary components for a story.
He also understood how to enjoy himself and let his hair down. as did the rest of us in those days. I spent a lot of time with him in the mid- to late-80s. That was some excessive hair! “
Source: Mirror
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