News Summary
Beloved broadcaster Fred Cantú is set to retire in March 2025 after an impressive 53-year career in television and radio. Since starting at 17, he has become a staple of Austin media, covering significant events and earning numerous accolades. As CBS Austin prepares to honor his contributions, the city reflects on his lasting impact as Austin’s beloved news anchor.
Longtime Austin Broadcaster Announces Retirement After 53 Years
The vibrant city of Austin is bracing itself for a bittersweet departure as beloved broadcaster Fred Cantú has announced his retirement set for the end of March 2025, marking the end of an incredible 53-year journey in the world of television and radio. Imagine being a part of the very fabric of Austin media since 1972 – that’s precisely what Fred has achieved!
A Familiar Face Since the Age of 17
Stepping into the broadcasting realm at merely 17 years old, Fred quickly became a household name in Austin. With a whopping 45 years spent in the local broadcasting scene, he has shaped the way news has been delivered and consumed by the community. Having joined CBS Austin in 2002, Fred’s career has journeyed through various esteemed stations, including KTBC Fox 7 and KVUE 24, where he has donned multiple hats such as news anchor, DIY reporter, and even a quirky role as “The Gadget Guy.”
Major Historical Events
Over the years, Fred’s reporting has witnessed and chronicled some of the most significant events that have shaped Austin and beyond. From the tragic Space Shuttle Columbia disaster in 2003 to the harrowing Blanco River floods in 2015, and more recently, the unprecedented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fred has been there to bring both urgency and compassion to the stories that mattered. His passionate storytelling style has earned him the affectionate title of “Austin’s Uncle Fred,” a testament to his approachable persona that resonates with viewers.
Starting Out as a DJ
Fred’s unique journey started back in Brownsville, Texas, where he first dipped his toes into broadcasting as a disc jockey at 1600 KBOR. This early experience primed him for various roles, including news reports on high school football games. Aspiring for more, he packed his bags and headed to Austin in 1980 to pursue electrical engineering studies at the University of Texas while working numerous part-time jobs in broadcasting. It didn’t take long for his talents to shine through! By 1981, he was fully immersed in KLBJ-AM NewsTalk 590, where his journalism pursuits only grew more passionate.
The Rise to Television Stardom
Fred made his television debut in 1990, stepping in as a weekend anchor at Channel 7, and later transitioned to KVUE 24, where he solidified his place as a top-rated morning anchor from 1995 to 2001. Joining CBS Austin in 2002, he expanded his reach in the community, co-anchoring newscasts that emphasized delivering well-balanced news coverage and engaging stories.
A Legacy of Awards and Recognition
Fred’s remarkable career hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s been recognized numerous times, earning accolades such as being a five-time recipient of the Austin Chronicle’s Best TV Anchor award and receiving honors from the Texas Associated Press. Notably, he even earned a Grammy nomination for his innovative work on a sound effect for a local band’s album. How cool is that?
Celebrating a Broadcasting Legend
As Fred prepares to conclude his illustrious career, CBS Austin has announced plans to honor him, showcasing his contributions both on-air and online leading up to his retirement. While leaving behind a remarkable legacy, there’s no doubt that his influence will linger. The warm-hearted personality that brought countless stories to life will surely be missed!
So there you have it, Austin! Get ready to bid farewell to a legend in the broadcasting world, as Fred Cantú hangs up his microphone after more than five decades in service. His journey is a testament to the camaraderie and spirit that makes Austin such a remarkable place to call home.
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Additional Resources
- CBS Austin: Fred Cantu Retiring
- Wikipedia: Austin
- Mike McGuff: Fred Cantu Retirement
- Google Search: Fred Cantu
- CBS Austin: I-35 Expansion
- Google Scholar: I-35 Expansion
- CBS Austin: ATX Council Amendments
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin Home Initiative
- The National Desk: ATX Road Crews
- Google News: First Day of Winter Preparations
