José Griñán Death and Obituary – José Griñán, the beloved former news anchor for FOX 26 Houston, passed away at the age of 72. His death was confirmed by the station in a Monday announcement, which highlighted the indelible mark he left on both the Houston community and the field of broadcast journalism. Griñán’s career spanned decades, during which he became a fixture in Houston households, known for his professional demeanor, warmth, and generosity.
Griñán’s journey in broadcasting began in his native Tampa, Florida, before skyrocketing to prominence across various cities. He initially started his career as a documentary cinematographer for the U.S. Army, later transitioning into news anchoring. His first significant anchor role came in 1975 in El Paso, Texas. From there, he worked in major cities including Tampa, Miami, New York, and Dallas, before joining FOX 26 Houston in 1993. He made history as the first male anchor for the station’s morning show, a role that helped solidify his place as a beloved figure in the Houston community.
Over the course of his 30-year tenure at FOX 26, Griñán anchored coverage of some of the most significant and heartbreaking events in Houston’s history. He provided live, on-site reporting during high-profile events such as the Branch Davidian siege in Waco and covered numerous hurricanes that impacted the region. His ability to deliver hard-hitting breaking news with compassion and clarity endeared him to viewers, while his charismatic personality made him a household name in Houston.
Describing Griñán’s contributions to the station, FOX 26 stated, “José was a beloved and familiar face in Houston – leaving an indelible mark on the city and on its broadcasting landscape.” His coverage was not limited to crisis and breaking news, though; he was also known for covering heartwarming human-interest stories, showcasing his versatile storytelling ability.
In addition to his career, Griñán was widely respected for his generosity and involvement in the community. He was known for giving his time and resources to several charitable organizations, including the National Kidney Foundation, Special Olympics, and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Griñán also served as a board member for the Dive Pirate Foundation, Houston Read Commission, and Keep Houston Beautiful, demonstrating his deep commitment to bettering the community he served for so many years.
A proud Cuban-American, Griñán was actively involved in both the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. These affiliations underscored his dedication to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the field of journalism.
Throughout his career, Griñán earned the respect and admiration of colleagues, mentors, and viewers alike. FOX 26 noted that he shared the news desk with more than 30 anchors and mentored dozens of reporters, leaving a lasting impact on the individuals who had the privilege of working alongside him. His kindness and professional excellence extended far beyond the newsroom, making him a figure who was beloved by many in Houston and beyond.
Griñán retired from FOX 26 in 2023 after a remarkable career. He is survived by his two daughters. His passing marks the end of an era for Houston news, but his legacy will continue to shine through the stories he told and the countless lives he touched during his lifetime.
The post José Griñán Death and Obituary: Former news anchor for FOX 26 Houston, passed away at the age of 72 first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
