Ernie Anastos Renews FOX 5 Contract With Plans for National Programs

NEW YORK, Feb. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- HELLENIC TIMES: Legendary news anchor Ernie Anastos has signed a new multi-year contract with New York's FOX 5 as lead anchor. He will continue to co-anchor the 5PM and top rated 10PM news, and will host and create programs targeted for national syndication.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100203/NY47738 )

"I am delighted," says Anastos. "FOX is a leader in the industry and it's wonderful to be part of this winning organization."

News Corporation is equally thrilled with Ernie as he takes their flagship station into the next decade.

"We are proud to have Ernie as our lead anchor at Fox," says Jack Abernethy, CEO FOX Television Stations. "His on air enthusiasm continues to be unmatched."

Anastos has an impressive record with more than 30 years experience as a top anchor. He has amassed 30 Emmy awards and nominations for reporting stories including  9/11 World Trade Center coverage, the 2003 Northeast Blackout, Presidential Inaugurations, JFK Jr.'s Tragedy, a Tribute to John Lennon and several Emmys for Outstanding Newscasts. Anastos also won the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in journalism.

Ernie ranks among the highest paid TV news stars in America. His new contract includes the opportunity to host and produce special programs with plans for national syndication. "It's exciting!" says Anastos, "The format will be fresh, entertaining and will also engage viewers with today's technology." He is working with Twentieth Television and expects to launch his first pilot later this year on Fox 5.

Anastos is also the author of two youth oriented books including a children's book that inspires children to become TV reporters. Proceeds from Ernie and the Big Newz  benefit national children's charities.  Ernie is a big supporter of The Make A Wish Foundation of America, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, The Bowery Mission, March of Dimes, Easter Seals, Capuchin Food Pantries, the Police Athletic League, and co-hosts telethons with Variety, The Children's Charity of Greater NY.

"Ernie has a tremendous heart," says Variety chairman and radio megastar Cousin Bruce Murrow.   

Anastos is one of the most beloved newsmen in the industry. "I've never seen him wear the same tie twice," Regis Philbin recently said to the New York Times.  Philbin has also said, "Ernie may be the nicest guy I ever met in this business." 

SOURCE Hellenic Times