By Mary O’KEEFE

Los Angeles is a big city but there are times when it feels like a small hometown and that was never more apparent than on May 10 when news came that longtime KTLA entertainment reporter Sam Rubin had passed away.

People from around the world responded, however it was the tributes from locals that showed that LA’s heart was broken.

“KTLA 5 is profoundly saddened to report the death of Sam Rubin. Sam was a giant in the local news industry and the entertainment world, and a fixture of Los Angeles morning television for decades. His laugh, charm and caring personality touched all who knew him. Sam was a loving husband and father: the roles he cherished the most. Our thoughts are with Sam’s family during this difficult time,” KTLA release on their website.

The days that followed the KTLA family share tributes that came in locally and from around the world.

Rubin had started at KTLA in 1991, he had published two books, regularly appeared on BBC television and radio in the United Kingdom and was a regular contributor to Triple M radio and Channel 9 television network in Australia, according to ktla.com

He was also a founding member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association, the largest organization of film and television critics in the U.S.

LA City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez adjourned the LA City Council Tuesday’s meeting in Sam’s name.

“Today I was honored to adjourn the City Council meeting in memory of Sam Rubin,” she posted on Instagram after the Tuesday meeting. “His contributions to entertainment journalism will be remembered and celebrated for years to come…”

“It’s been incredibly moving to see the outpouring of love for Sam Rubin over the past few days. Sam was an iconic reporter who delivered morning news and entertainment highlights to millions of Angelenos. His voice, his warmth and his dedication to sharing the latest with KTLA viewers will be cherished by so many.”LA Mayor Karen Bass posted on X on May 13.

“Irreplaceable. Will missing seeing your smiling face on @ktlamorningnews,” LA Supervisor Kathryn Barger posted on X.

Initial reports had been that Sam had passed away due to a heart attack. He had been at work on May 9 but reportedly called in sick on May 10.

On May 9 he did his final on-air interview with actress Jane Seymour.

“It’s hard to believe that just yesterday I was with @samontv. I’m deeply saddened by the news of his passing. He was consistently kind, happy, and always ready to offer assistance with any project I was a part of. You will be missed, Sam,” Seymour posted along with a photo of them together.

Sam Rubin was 64 years old.