Craig Savage, a revered cameraman for Fox News Channel, has died after a long fight with cancer.
According to Fox News, Craig Savage passed away on Sunday at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in broadcast journalism.
Joining just days before the network's inception, Savage's career was pivotal to the visual storytelling at Fox News.
He embarked on his journey with Fox News on October 3, 1996, and quickly became an instrumental figure behind the camera. Assigned early to the White House by then-Washington bureau chief Kim Hume, Savage showcased his camera skills at the highest levels of news reporting.
Suzanne Scott and Jay Wallace, leaders at FOX News Media, recalled Savage's impactful role through a memo to staff. They noted his early involvement in important network events, such as the first presidential interview with then-President Bill Clinton.
His technical skills shone brightly as he transitioned Fox News from analog to modern digital broadcasting methods.
During his career, Craig operated the FOX floor camera at presidential conventions in 2000 and 2004. His expertise was not just in operating cameras but also in less visible roles such as mastering LED lighting and serving as an engineer on significant trips, like the one to Africa with President Clinton.
His significant projects included key presidential trips, such as President George W. Bush’s secretive 2003 visit to Iraq and President Donald Trump’s unexpected 2019 trip to Afghanistan.
These assignments tested his ability to deliver high-quality footage under tight security and challenging conditions.
Suzanne Scott and Jay Wallace further highlighted how Craig embraced technological advancements, becoming proficient with drones in recent years. "He often invested countless hours learning the latest technologies, only to turn around and generously share that knowledge with colleagues," they stated. His role was indispensable in ensuring the seamless capture of live events from the White House.
Craig’s dedication to his craft and his ability to handle complex challenges made him a valued member of the Fox News team. According to FOX News executives Suzanne Scott and Jay Wallace, his troubleshooting skills were particularly notable during live broadcasts.
Beyond his professional achievements, Craig Savage is survived by his wife Anne Marie Riha, his sons Jake, Andrew, and Maxwell, daughter-in-law Alexa, stepchildren Zachary and Carly Norins, and grandchildren Sloane and Evander Savage. His family remembers him not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his virtues.
In summarizing his impact, FOX News leaders stated that Craig not only contributed significantly to the network's success but also profoundly influenced the careers of many fellow journalists. His passion for his work and willingness to mentor others left an indelible mark on the industry.
Craig Savage’s passing is not just the loss of a seasoned cameraman but the departure of a figure who helped shape the visual narrative of Fox News over nearly three decades. His technical expertise and dedication to reporting critical events helped set standards in the field, making a lasting imprint on broadcast journalism.
