Celebrated WRAL-TV Anchor Charlie Gaddy Dies at 93
RALEIGH, NC – Charlie Gaddy, the iconic anchor for WRAL-TV NBC, passed away last Thursday at the age of 93. Gaddy was a cherished figure in North Carolina broadcasting, having anchored the evening news for over two decades.
Beginning his career as an NBC page in the 1950s, Gaddy transitioned to Raleigh, where he made his mark as a newsman. He launched the morning show "Good Morning, Charlie" in 1970, allowing viewers to interact directly through calls, before shifting to the evening news in 1974.
Gaddy’s dynamic presence, alongside co-anchor Bobbie Battista, weatherman Bob DeBardelaben, and sports journalist Rich Brenner, created a beloved news team that resonated with the local community. “A lot of the success the station enjoyed during those early years was attributable to Charlie Gaddy,” remarked Fred Barber, WRAL’s former general manager.
Current WRAL president and COO, Jimmy Goodmon, paid tribute to Gaddy’s legacy. “For many of us, it feels like the loss of a giant. Charlie was both a light in our community and within our Capitol Broadcasting Company family. His journalism legacy of compassion and curiosity will live on in all those he touched,” Goodmon stated.
In a touching reunion on WRAL’s 50th anniversary, Gaddy reflected, “I just feel like I was in the right place. This was what I was supposed to do, and I wanted to do it well.” His commitment to journalism and the community has left an indelible mark, ensuring Gaddy will be remembered as a cornerstone of local broadcasting and a trusted voice in the hearts of many viewers.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
