RALEIGH, NC — The WRAL Family and North Carolina Community Mourn the Loss of Broadcasting Icon Charlie Gaddy

RALEIGH, NC — The WRAL Family and North Carolina Community Mourn the Loss of Broadcasting Icon Charlie Gaddy

RALEIGH, NC — With heavy hearts, the WRAL family and viewers across North Carolina are mourning the passing of one of the most respected figures in North Carolina journalism history. Charlie Gaddy, the beloved longtime news anchor and the face of WRAL News for decades, died peacefully this morning. His passing marks the end of an era and leaves behind a remarkable legacy that shaped not only local journalism but the very fabric of North Carolina’s media identity.

For more than two decades, Charlie Gaddy graced the television screens of North Carolina homes as a steady, trustworthy, and compassionate voice. From the early 1970s through the mid-1990s, he was a fixture at WRAL-TV, anchoring the evening newscasts and becoming a household name synonymous with credibility and class. His signature delivery, warmth, and unwavering professionalism earned him admiration from colleagues and trust from generations of viewers.

Born in Biscoe, North Carolina, in 1931, Charlie Gaddy’s roots were deeply embedded in the state he loved so dearly. He attended Wake Forest University and served in the United States Air Force before turning his attention to broadcasting. He began his broadcasting career in radio before transitioning to television, eventually joining WRAL in 1970. By 1974, he had become the lead anchor for WRAL’s evening news broadcasts—a role he would hold until his retirement in 1994.

Charlie’s presence at WRAL helped transform the station into one of the most respected local news operations in the country. Alongside co-anchors such as Adele Arakawa and meteorologist Bob DeBardelaben, Charlie formed a news team that became legendary in the Triangle region. His calm demeanor and deep commitment to journalistic integrity set the standard for local news reporting in an age before social media and 24-hour news cycles.

Throughout his career, Charlie Gaddy earned numerous accolades for his excellence in broadcasting. He was inducted into the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and received the prestigious Governor’s Award for lifetime achievement from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Mid-South Chapter. But perhaps the greatest testament to his legacy was the unwavering trust and affection he inspired among the people of North Carolina.

Beyond the newsroom, Charlie was an engaged and generous member of the community. He frequently lent his voice and presence to charitable causes, emceed community events, and advocated for education and the arts. He was particularly proud of his involvement with the North Carolina Symphony and various youth mentorship initiatives, always believing in the power of storytelling and education to uplift lives.

In retirement, Charlie continued to be a cherished figure in Raleigh and beyond. He often appeared at WRAL anniversary specials, mentoring young journalists and serving as a living bridge to the station’s storied past. His humility, kindness, and passion for journalism never waned.

WRAL-TV released a heartfelt statement this morning, saying, “Charlie Gaddy was more than just a news anchor—he was a pillar of our newsroom and a cherished friend. His influence shaped the character of WRAL News, and his legacy will live on in every story we tell. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and thank him for a lifetime of dedication to the people of North Carolina.”

Viewers, too, took to social media and community forums to express their grief and share memories. One longtime viewer wrote, “Charlie Gaddy was like family to us. Every night, we welcomed him into our homes. He helped us make sense of the world with clarity, grace, and heart.”

Charlie is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a loving extended family, all of whom were a great source of pride to him. Funeral arrangements are forthcoming, and WRAL is planning a special on-air tribute in the coming days to honor his life and legacy.

As the sun sets on a remarkable life, North Carolina remembers Charlie Gaddy not just as a newsman, but as a guiding light—one who informed, comforted, and connected us for over two decades. His voice may be silent now, but the impact of his work and the warmth of his spirit will echo for generations to come.