James Leroy Hartz was born on February 3rd, 1940 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, US. He took his graduation from Tulsa Central High School in 1958. He then attended the University of Tulsa as a premed student but after three years, he took his decision to study journalism instead. In 1962, he became a reporter for KOTV in Tulsa and was promoted to news director in 1964, shortly before he joined the NBC-owned WNBC TV in New York. He also served as an Anchor in night newscasts, where he worked until 1974. He was an American television personality, columnist and reporter during the mid- and late-1970s. At age 24, he was the youngest correspondent NBC had ever hired. Hartz became best known to a national audience for a two-year position as the co-host of the Today Show, along with Barbara Walters.
After leaving the NBC, he succeeded Hugh Downs to co-host of the PBS series Over Easy, sharing the program with Broadway actress, Mary Martin. During his career, he also hosted other public television shows like Innovation. He also co-anchored a weekly PBS-NHK joint venture news program. During his entire career, he earned a huge respect and love from fans around the world.
According to the sources, he died from Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Hartz will be always remembered by his family and friends. RIP Hartz!
