Legendary Boston TV News Reporter Dies At 69: Reports

BOSTON, MA — Longtime Boston TV news reporter Byron Barnett died Monday at the age of 69, several media outlets reported.

Barnett, who retired in 2021 and passed away in his native Minneapolis, was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2017, according to Boston.com.

"During his remarks at his induction into the state’s Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Barnett said he strove throughout his career to not only 'get it right' in his reporting, but to share stories with the proper context to avoid unintended consequences," the website reported.

The station 7 News Boston shared a statement from Barnett's family that said Barnett "passed away peacefully."

“Throughout his four decade career, Byron cherished the privilege of telling the stories of New Englanders who welcomed him into their lives," the statement said. "After facing cancer with unwavering courage, Byron passed away peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by his loving family.”

An interview with Muhammad Ali was the "highlight early in (Barnett's) TV news career," Adweek reported, "But it was his questioning of another sports legend that Pats fans will always remember, Bill Belichick."

The Economic Times point out Barnett's popularity with viewers.

"Barnett was very popular for his political coverage, and he also stepped forward to ask the tough questions," the Economic Times said.