Check out the video of Tom Hatten hosting a show in 1989.
Video credit: KLXT 77
Tom Hatten, a former actor, announcer, and KTLA host died Saturday at age 92, the Los Angeles television station reported.
Hatten was best known as the host of KTLA’s Popeye and Friends show, as well as KTLA’s Family Film Festival. KTLA Channel announced his death Saturday, honoring the “local legend” who joined the network in 1952 as an announcer.
This is a picture of him back in 2012.
Hatten’s longtime friend and former KTLA producer Joe Quasarano confirmed his passing, KTLA Channel 5 reported.
Hatten hosted Popeye and Friends, a daily children’s show, from 1976 to 1988, and Family Film Festival from 1978 to 1992.
The longtime broadcaster was also a writer, producer, and actor. He appeared in six episodes of Gomer Pyle: USMC in the 1960’s and also had a small part in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman in 1994. His most recent IMDB credit was the 2004 short film Bravura.
He didn’t mind how big or small his part was in a show. Talking about his time with the Los Angeles Times back in 1991 he said,“I don’t mind having fun in small parts, or doing a kids’ show.” And he continued by saying, “I don’t mind doing what I’m doing as long as I’m in the business.”
KTLA entertainment reporter Sam Rubin paid tribute to the TV talent on Saturday by writing on his twitter about the local legend: ‘On a warm and beautiful day locally, perhaps it is only fitting that we learn of the passing of a warm and really beautiful man. Local media legend, and an actor with considerable credits…’
He is survived by his partner of 50-years Pete Menifee, as well as beloved nieces and nephews.
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