The city of Boston and the journalism community are mourning the passing of Byron Barnett, a beloved and respected 7NEWS reporter, who died peacefully on Sunday at the age of 69 after a courageous battle with cancer.
He was surrounded by his loving family in his final moments. Byron’s name is synonymous with excellence in broadcast journalism in New England. Over a career that spanned nearly four decades, Byron became a familiar and trusted face on television screens across Boston and beyond.
Hired by WHDH in 1983, he spent 38 years reporting on the biggest stories of the day—stories that shaped not only the city but the nation.
Whether it was standing in the middle of a Nor’easter, reporting live during the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster in 1986, or covering powerful courtroom moments that captivated the country, Byron was there—steadfast, professional, and deeply committed to his craft.
He was also a force in political reporting, known for his fearless approach to asking the tough questions and holding public officials accountable. One of his proudest moments came when he was live on the air during the historic inauguration of President Barack Obama in Washington, D.C.
Byron had a unique ability to connect with people—whether he was interviewing Muhammad Ali, a memory he considered a highlight of his career, or questioning Patriots head coach Bill Belichick about pressing issues affecting fans.
His empathy and curiosity helped him tell the stories that mattered, especially those in the Black community, where civil rights leaders have praised him for amplifying voices too often overlooked. His work made a difference, and his legacy will continue to do so.
Born and raised in Minnesota, Byron brought a touch of Midwestern warmth to his New England reporting. He often joked about his divided football loyalties—especially when his Minnesota Vikings played the New England Patriots.
Despite the often solitary nature of reporting, colleagues cherished those rare occasions when they’d run into Byron out in the field. “Seeing Byron on your story—it made the day better,” many have said.
Byron’s excellence in journalism did not go unnoticed. He was proudly inducted into the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Silver Circle and the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame—both honors celebrating his decades of impactful work.
He was especially proud that his beloved mother was present for one of those moments; she passed away in 2023. After retiring during the COVID-19 pandemic, Byron offered a heartfelt goodbye to the newsroom—colleagues gathered with masks on, united in their admiration for a man who had meant so much to them. “I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said. “It’s a fun and exciting life. And I’m so glad to have shared it with all of you.”
Byron is survived by his wife, Kathleen, his two sons, his daughter, and his grandchildren, who now mourn the loss of a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend.
In a statement, Byron’s son Parker shared:
“After facing cancer with unwavering courage, Byron passed away peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by family. Throughout his four-decade career, Byron cherished the privilege of telling the stories of New Englanders who welcomed him into their lives.”
