Longtime WUSA anchor Bruce Johnson has died of heart failure. He was 71.
Johnson retired from the Washington, D.C. CBS affiliate two years ago after working at the station for 44 years.
”Bruce was a friend, he was a mentor to so many… and he knew DC like the back of his hand,” WRC anchor Leon Harris said.
“Bruce Johnson was a giant of DC journalism, a father, grandfather, husband, & proud author,” Washington, D.C. mayor Muriel Bowser said on Twitter. “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.”
Johnson won 22 Emmys over the course of his career. He had also been honored by the NATAS Board of Governors and was a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Press Club. He authored three books: Heart to Heart, All or Nothing and Surviving Deep Waters.
WUSA said the Johnson family has asked for privacy in this difficult time and that the Tegna owned station wished to respect that.
“We are eternally thankful for Johnson’s endless contributions over the years, and he will be deeply missed by his television family, many of whom counted Johnson as one of their closest friends. WUSA9 will share remembrances that honor his legacy at the appropriate time.”