Houston, Texas – Charles Porter Jr., the trailblazing African American television news reporter and producer who broke barriers as Houston’s first Black TV journalist, has passed away.
The Houston Chronicle reported that he succumbed to an undisclosed, long-standing illness on Monday, October 2. He was 81 years old.
Porter’s illustrious career, spanning from 1971 to 1978, saw him make a profound impact on local journalism and the African American community. With his distinctive deep voice, he became renowned for his thorough news reporting and exceptional documentary work.
His journey in media began on radio, where he worked at KCOH-AM, followed by stints at KTSU-FM, and eventually, he served as a news director at KYOK-AM.
Beyond his exceptional reporting, Porter was a devoted mentor to journalism students and emerging reporters throughout his career.
His mentorship extended to present-day ABC 13 journalist Melanie Lawson, who fondly remembered his guidance. “Charles was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met & he took me under wing at ABC 13 Houston as an intern,” Lawson wrote on X after learning of Porter’s death.
During his tenure at ABC 13, Porter left an indelible mark with the creation of the acclaimed documentary, “The Sweet By & By,” which delved into the significance of Black churches.
HOUSTON, TEXAS – JANUARY 6: KTSU general manager Charles Porter Jr. (far right) with radio staffers at KTSU-FM. (John Everett/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)
He also crafted a special broadcast in 1972, chronicling the historic inauguration of the late Barbara Jordan as the first Black woman from the South to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington.
Porter’s legacy lives on through his family. He is survived by two daughters, two sons, 14 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.
Melanie Lawson, in a heartfelt tribute, expressed, “He truly set the gold standard for so many of us. My deepest condolences to his family.” The passing of Charles Porter Jr. leaves a void in the Houston journalism landscape, but his contributions and mentorship will forever be remembered and cherished.
SOURCE: thegrio.com