Warren Wilson, a trailblazing Los Angeles broadcaster and journalist, has died at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the landscape of broadcast media in Southern California.
According to the Daily Mail, Wilson passed away on Friday in his Oxnard, California home. The renowned reporter spent four decades in the industry and was known for his groundbreaking work as one of Los Angeles' first Black broadcast journalists.
Wilson's son, Stanley, described his father's on-air demeanor as authentic, unsensational, and sincere. He praised Wilson's ability to maintain a calming and eloquent voice throughout his career, which spanned several major news outlets in Los Angeles.
Wilson's journey in journalism began in the 1950s when he worked in the U.S. Navy's press office. His career path then led him to the City News Service and the Los Angeles bureau of United Press International, where he honed his reporting skills.
In 1969, Wilson joined KNBC and NBC News, where he worked for 15 years. His talent and dedication caught the attention of KTLA, which hired him in 1984. Wilson remained with KTLA until his retirement in 2005, solidifying his status as a respected figure in Los Angeles journalism.
Throughout his career, Wilson faced and overcame numerous challenges, including threats and racism. Despite these obstacles, he persevered and used his platform to discuss important social issues, including police brutality.
Wilson's coverage of major historical events cemented his reputation as a reliable and brave journalist. He reported on the 1965 and 1992 Los Angeles riots, the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy, and the infamous Charles Manson killings.
KTLA reporter Eric Spillman, who worked alongside Wilson, praised his colleague's bravery and trustworthiness. Spillman recounted how Wilson would often help individuals who were afraid to turn themselves in to the police, arranging safe meetings to facilitate their surrender.
Wilson's colleague shared:
Warren was a trusted reporter and members of minority communities who were afraid to turn themselves in to police would often contact Warren and arrange to meet with him and he would safely help them turn themselves in.
Wilson's exceptional work did not go unnoticed by his peers and industry professionals. In 1979, he received an Emmy Award for his investigative journalism. His coverage of the Los Angeles riots also earned him a prestigious Peabody Award.
After his retirement, Wilson reflected on his career with pride, stating that he had accomplished everything he set out to do, despite the obstacles he faced from the beginning. His perseverance and dedication to his craft set a high standard for future generations of journalists.
Wilson's impact on broadcast journalism extended beyond his reporting. He was instrumental in helping 22 wanted fugitives surrender to law enforcement, including two individuals responsible for the death of a Los Angeles police officer in 1988.
Wilson's passing marks the end of an era in Los Angeles broadcasting. His commitment to truth, fairness, and community service set him apart as a journalist and as a human being. Wilson's career spanned some of the most tumultuous times in Los Angeles history, and his calm, authoritative voice helped guide viewers through these events. His legacy as a pioneering Black journalist, trusted community figure, and dedicated family man will continue to inspire future generations in the field of broadcast journalism.
