Fox News Channel mourns the loss of a veteran cameraman, Craig Savage.
According to Fox News, Craig Savage passed away at age 61 following a lengthy struggle with cancer.
He had been with the network since just before its inception, having joined on October 3, 1996. His early introduction to the team proved pivotal as he soon earned a key role operating the camera for the White House.
Craig Savage was instrumental in shooting the first presidential interview of Fox News with then-President Bill Clinton. This marked the beginning of a distinguished tenure, capturing almost every presidential interview thereafter. His expertise also took him to pivotal events, such as presidential conventions in 2000 and 2004.
Among his significant assignments were covering then-President George W. Bush's secret visit to Iraq in 2003 and President Donald Trump’s undisclosed trip to Afghanistan in 2016. These assignments underscored his ability to handle sensitive and critical news environments adeptly.
Furthermore, Craig Savage didn't just excel in traditional camera roles; he adapted to changes in media technology, mastering everything from analog to digital transitions and integrating LED lighting in his work.
His career also extended to innovative reporting areas like drone operation, bringing stories from disasters and border-related issues to the forefront. Known for a proactive approach to problem-solving, he frequently managed the technical challenges of live broadcasts, particularly from the White House.
In one memorable instance, he assumed the role of an engineer on a significant journey to Africa with then-President Clinton, showcasing his versatility and technical acumen.
According to FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott and president Jay Wallace, "Craig Savage left an indelible mark on Fox News and shaped the careers of many at the network." His technical skills and creativity were immediately apparent to Kim Hume, the then-Washington bureau chief, earning him a pivotal role from the start.
Suzanne Scott and Jay Wallace note, "Craig's commitment deeply influenced our coverage of critical events, providing Fox viewers with unmatched perspectives on newsworthy moments."
Suzanne Scott and Jay Wallace added:
An integral part of numerous pivotal events in FOX News Channel’s history, he helped shoot our first presidential interview with then-President Clinton and was subsequently involved in nearly every presidential interview thereafter. He also ran the FOX floor camera at the 2000 and 2004 presidential conventions — an extremely challenging job that he truly relished. His stealth and proficiency in delivering footage under the most stringent conditions were a testament to his skill and dedication.
Craig Savage's legacy is survived by his wife, Anne Marie Riha, their children Jake, Andrew, and Maxwell, daughter-in-law Alexa, stepchildren Zachary and Carly Norins, and grandchildren Sloane and Evander Savage. His contributions transcended the professional realm, enriching the lives of those around him and leaving a lasting imprint on an entire industry.
Reflecting on his career, it's clear that Craig Savage was not just a participant in creating news but a pivotal character in how it was presented, shaping public understanding through his lens. His passing marks a significant loss for the Fox News family and the field of journalism at large. Craig's career was embodied by dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to his craft and team.
