TV News Veteran Michael Clemente Dies at 70

Michael Clemente, a distinguished TV executive and producer, has passed away at 70. He died suddenly at his home in Garrison, New York. Clemente dedicated nearly three decades to ABC News, where he was a key collaborator with Peter Jennings on World News Tonight.

During his tenure, he produced coverage of pivotal global events, including the fall of the Berlin Wall and the first Gulf War. He also led ABC News' digital operations from 2006 to 2009, playing a role in the launch of ABC News Now and the expansion of ABCNews.com.

In 2009, Clemente moved to Fox News, rising to executive vice president. There, he managed daily news operations and major political broadcasts, including a record-breaking 2015 Republican primary debate. He also produced a notable 2013 interview with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Clemente's career also included executive producer roles at CNN and advisory positions with The Wall Street Journal and Twitter. Colleagues remembered him as a dedicated journalist who sought facts and cared deeply for his teams. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne, and four children. Viewing hours will be held on May 20 in Harwich, Massachusetts.