RENOWNED news anchor Bruce Johnson has died at the age of 71 after suffering heart failure, according to reports.
The ex WUSA9 reporter passed away in Delaware on Sunday, his wife revealed.
Johnson joined WTOP-TV when he was 25 and was best known for the show Off Script with Bruce Johnson.
He revealed he was battling cancer just two years before retiring, WTOP reported.
The journalist’s death came just weeks after his book Surviving Deep Waters had been published.
Tributes have been paid to Johnson as news of his passing emerged.
Muriel Bowser, the mayor of D.C, said: “Bruce Johnson was a giant of DC journalism, a father, grandfather, husband, & proud author.
“Like many Washingtonians, he’s been a part of my life since I was a little girl, delivering the news and giving voice to DC residents. I’m heartbroken. Rest In Heaven.”
Reporters have also paid their own tributes to the journalist.
7News journalist John Gonzalez said: “So devastated to hear of the passing of Bruce Johnson, a true tv legend in D.C.
“Blessed to call him a fellow journalist and someone I truly looked up to. Rest In Peace and God bless you, my friend. My heart breaks for his wife Lori and his family.”
Former WUSA9 journalist Debra Alfarone penned: “He was my mentor, my co-anchor, my biggest cheerleader, my ear to bend, my dating coach (when I was single), and my friend.
“Rest in power, Bruce Johnson. There’ll never be another like you.”
WUSA9 tweeted that their hearts are “aching” following Johnson’s death.
He was a member of the Society of Professional Journalists Hall of Fame.
The TV star is survived by his wife Lori, his children Brandon, Kurshanna, and Carolyn, and his three grandsons.
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