José Griñán Death and Obituary: José Griñán, the beloved former news anchor for FOX 26 Houston, has passed away at the age of 72. The station confirmed his death on Monday, commemorating his decades-long legacy and the profound impact he made on Houston’s media landscape and its community.
Griñán was more than just a news anchor—he was a household name and a trusted voice for generations of Houstonians.
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A Distinguished Career Spanning Over Four Decades
José Griñán began his broadcasting career in his hometown of Tampa, Florida. His media journey began as a documentary cinematographer in the U.S. Army before transitioning into news anchoring. In 1975, he landed his first significant anchor role in El Paso, Texas, which set the stage for a career that would take him to major markets such as Miami, New York, Dallas, and eventually Houston.
He joined FOX 26 Houston in 1993, making history as the station’s first male morning show anchor. Over the next three decades, Griñán became a familiar and respected face across Houston households.
Coverage That Touched Lives and Inspired Communities
During his tenure at FOX 26, Griñán covered some of the most defining events in Houston’s history. From the Branch Davidian siege to devastating hurricanes, his live, on-the-ground reporting was marked by compassion, clarity, and professionalism. His human-interest stories were especially celebrated, showcasing his gift for storytelling that resonated deeply with viewers.
FOX 26 described Griñán as “a dear and familiar face—leaving an indelible mark on the city and its broadcast landscape.”
A Legacy of Service Beyond the Newsroom
Griñán’s contributions went far beyond television. Known for his generous spirit, he actively supported numerous charitable organizations, including:
- National Kidney Foundation
- Special Olympics
- Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
He also served on the boards of:
- Dive Pirates Foundation
- Houston READ Commission
- Keep Houston Beautiful
His dedication to community service reflected the same passion he brought to journalism—uplifting others and making a difference.
Advocate for Diversity and Inclusion in Media
As a proud Cuban-American, José Griñán was deeply involved in promoting diversity in journalism. He was a member of both the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, championing equity and inclusion throughout his career.
A Mentor and Leader in the Newsroom
FOX 26 noted that Griñán shared the news desk with over 30 anchors and mentored countless journalists. His colleagues praised his professionalism, mentorship, and kindness—traits that earned him admiration both on and off camera.
He retired from FOX 26 in 2023, leaving behind a newsroom and city forever shaped by his presence.
Conclusion: A Legacy That Lives On
José Griñán’s passing marks the end of an era for Houston journalism. His decades of service, commitment to truth, and compassion for the community cement his place as one of the city’s most respected media figures. He is survived by his two daughters, who carry forward the memory of a man whose legacy will continue to shine through the lives he touched and the stories he told.
The city of Houston—and the field of journalism—mourns the loss of a true legend.