Jorge Ramos, the renowned news anchor known for his steadfast commitment to journalism, will say goodbye to his audience at Noticiero Univision after nearly 40 years. His final newscast is scheduled for December 13, 2023, marking the end of a monumental chapter for both him and the network.
Ramos, who joined Univision back in 1986, is celebrated for his role not just as a reporter but as a voice for the Hispanic community across the United States. Born in Mexico, he moved to the U.S. at age 24, pursuing his passion for journalism and advocacy. His time at Univision has seen him interviewing major political figures, including U.S. presidents like Joe Biden and Barack Obama, as well as international leaders like Fidel Castro, for whom he faced challenges, including detention and deportation during one particularly intense encounter.
With his departure closing the curtain on his long-standing role, tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans. His partner, Chiquinquirá Delgado, shared her admiration on social media just hours before his final broadcast, stating, "When you’ve done what you love all your life and worked tirelessly for your community, there are no goodbyes." Delgado’s words captured the essence of Ramos' dedication to journalism and his community.
Ramos also expressed his gratitude to his viewers and colleagues through heartfelt posts on social media. "This Friday is my last newscast on Univision after 38 years. And on Sunday, the last episode of Al Punto will be broadcast after almost 17 years. Pure gratitude," he wrote, reflecting on his incredible career. Indeed, for many viewers, Ramos was more than just a news anchor; he was the familiar face they welcomed each night.
Throughout his tenure, Ramos became known as the "Walter Cronkite of Latin America," recognized for his serious journalism and courage, especially when covering sensitive political issues facing the Hispanic communities. His now-finished hosting of Al Punto for 17 years positions him among the most influential Hispanic journalists paving the way for future generations.
While Ramos's departure is personal, it also coincides with broader challenges within Univision. The company is currently amid restructuring, which has included layoffs and management shifts, particularly after the amalgamation with Televisa. Daniel Alegre, the new CEO, has communicated to employees about the "challenges" the network faces. He asked for their focus and resilience as they navigate these pivotal changes.
November saw two veteran reporters opt for retirement buyouts, and recent layoffs have impacted recognizable figures, such as Honduran journalist Maity Interiano and others from Univision's on-air staff. Hence, Ramos’s exit reflects not only his choice but also the shifting dynamics within the network at large.
Former co-anchor Maria Elena Salinas and prominent political commentator Ana Navarro have both shown their support for Ramos. Navarro expressed her appreciation by commenting, "Thank you for everything you have done, my dear Jorge, for uplifting, informing and representing our community." Such acknowledgments underline the respect and affection he cultivated throughout his career.
Despite acknowledging the difficulty of his departure, Ramos has remained hopeful. He declared, "I want to thank those who view us every night, who have accompanied me for so long, with so much affection and loyalty." His heart-felt appreciation highlights the role his audience played throughout his life as he embraced what’s next.
Looking to the future, Jorge Ramos’ path may continue to be bright. While specifics about his next steps remain uncertain, one thing is clear: his restless spirit and dedication to journalistic integrity assure us this is not the end—rather, it is the beginning of another exciting chapter. His story as one of television's most respected figures will surely continue as he seeks new opportunities post-Univision.
Jorge Ramos has set the bar for journalism, especially for immigrant journalists striving to make their mark. His legacy at Univision will undoubtedly influence the network's future and inspire countless others who aspire to tell the stories of the Latinx community. He leaves behind not only a wealth of impactful journalism but also the foundation of diverse representation and the urgency to continue addressing pressing issues.