Pablo Guzman, an Emmy Award-winning reporter and a well-recognized figure in New York journalism, passed away at 73 on Sunday, November 26, 2023.
Guzman, whose journalism career spanned decades, was renowned for his energetic reporting style and his significant influence in the media world. He was a native of the South Bronx, New York, and his career was deeply rooted in his early activism and commitment to societal change.
Guzman was an alumnus of the State University of New York at Old Westbury, where he became heavily involved with the Young Lords, a group advocating for Puerto Rican and Latino rights. His eloquent speaking and leadership skills were evident during his time as a spokesperson for the Young Lords, where he also produced and hosted a radio show on WBAI.
Starting his journalism career at WNEW-TV Channel 5 in 1984, Guzman later joined WNBC in 1992 and CBS New York in 1995. At CBS2, he rose to the position of senior correspondent. His reporting covered various domains such as crime, local politics, courts, and sports, establishing him as a versatile and respected journalist. His Emmy Award-winning coverage of a New York City Police Department officer’s murder while at WNBC-TV is a testament to his professional excellence.
Guzman’s talent extended beyond television to writing, with contributions to Billboard, Rolling Stone, the Village Voice, and The New York Daily News. He conducted interviews with notable personalities like Sting, Carlos Santana, and Robert De Niro, reflecting his wide-ranging influence.
His unexpected death from a heart attack in Westchester County, New York, left many in shock.
Colleague Tony Aiello described Guzman as having lived a remarkably full life, with his reporting reflecting the vibrancy of New York City’s streets.
Survived by his wife Debbie, children Angela and Daniel, and mother Sally, Guzman’s legacy in journalism and beyond remains influential.
