What Happened to Jon Burnett? Former KDKA News Anchor Passes Away

After a long career spanning decades, former anchor and weather forecaster at KDKA-TV, Jon Burnett, has sadly passed away at the age of 71. In Pittsburgh, he was a beloved figure, recognized for his charm, sincerity, and unwavering commitment to his work. The news of Jon Burnett’s passing has left an indelible mark on both his colleagues and viewers who cherished his kindness and professionalism.

Jon Burnett passes away at 71, claims report

Jon Burnett, previously known for his weather forecasts and talk shows on KDKA-TV, has passed away at the age of 71. His death appears to be related to complications possibly stemming from CTE. Renowned for his charm, Burnett was a cherished television figure who spent numerous years as a recognized figure in Pittsburgh’s broadcasting world (as reported by CBS News).

On Instagram, the station posted: “Our dear friend and ex-KDKA-TV personality, Jon Burnett, has passed away. Known for being genuine, innovative, gifted, and kind, he leaves us with a powerful legacy. For more photos of his extraordinary career, visit the link in our bio.

1982 marked the start of Burnett’s career at KDKA-TV, where he initially joined as a co-host for Evening Magazine. His talent for engaging audiences quickly propelled him to become a notable figure within the network. In 1985, he moved on to co-host Pittsburgh 2Day.

In the early 1990s, when both of his previous programs concluded, he returned to meteorology and joined KDKA’s weather team, where he remained for almost three decades. His colleagues and viewers appreciated his sincerity and effortless screen presence.

Prior to his stint in television, Burnett had a career as a football player at the University of Tennessee. During this time, he sustained multiple head injuries, including severe concussions, as reported by CBS News. In recent times, he has faced neurological problems and memory loss, which led to a tentative diagnosis of CTE.

In early 2024, they chose to join the National Sports Brain Bank study at the University of Pittsburgh. This decision allowed them to contribute valuable insights into brain disorders and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). After leaving broadcasting in 2019, Burnett continued to hold a special place in Pittsburgh’s heart. His influence transcended television, as his honesty about his health challenges significantly increased public awareness of CTE.

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2025-02-21 13:41