Longtime KTLA 5 weathercaster Mark Kriski is set to be released from the hospital next week after suffering a mild stroke. His wife, Jennifer Gould, shared the encouraging news on social media, expressing relief and gratitude for the support they have received.
Kriski, a beloved figure in Los Angeles television, experienced the stroke early on May 27 at their home. Gould reported that he was initially admitted to the neurological unit but has since been moved to the physical therapy unit, indicating significant progress in his recovery.
In a series of heartfelt posts, Gould shared updates on Kriski’s condition. On Friday, she announced his transfer to the physical therapy unit, and by Saturday, she noted that Kriski was feeling well enough to start texting her pictures of food he wanted. By Sunday, she expressed their deep appreciation for the outpouring of support from fans and colleagues alike.
The news of Kriski’s stroke came as a shock to many, especially following the recent death of his longtime colleague, Sam Rubin. Rubin, a veteran entertainment reporter, passed away on May 10 after suffering cardiac arrest at his West Valley home. The two had been fixtures on KTLA’s “Morning News” since 1991, forming a close bond over more than three decades on air together.
In a touching tribute to Rubin, Kriski wrote on social media, “There will never be another Sam Rubin. Love and will miss you my friend.” The post was accompanied by photos of the two together, both in recent times and from their early days on the show.
Despite the recent hardships, Kriski’s sense of humor and positive spirit remain intact. KTLA reported that he is “on the fast track to recovery” and that he is in good spirits. The station also shared that Kriski had checked in with them earlier in the week, expressing his gratitude for the well-wishes and support he has received.
Kriski’s health scare is not his first serious medical issue. In 2011, he was sidelined for several months after contracting pneumonia, which was followed by a hospital-borne “super bug” that landed him in the intensive care unit. Reflecting on that experience, Kriski told The Times that it was “a life and death experience that has given me a new perspective: On one hand, this was the worst thing that has ever happened to me. On the other hand, it is the best thing that has ever happened. You really do start to appreciate the little things in life.”
As Kriski continues his recovery, the KTLA team and viewers eagerly await his return. His colleagues have been vocal in their support, with morning anchors reading aloud texts from Kriski during a segment on Monday. They expressed their optimism that he would be back on air soon.
Kriski’s career at KTLA has been marked by numerous accolades and memorable moments. He is a nine-time Emmy winner and has made appearances in various films and TV shows, including “Speed,” “Speed 2,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “7th Heaven,” and “Everybody Hates Chris.” Additionally, he has announced boxing and MMA fights for Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions.
The news of Kriski’s impending release from the hospital has brought a sense of relief and hope to his fans and colleagues. As he prepares to return home and continue his recovery, the support from the KTLA community and viewers remains unwavering.
Mark Kriski’s journey to recovery is a testament to his resilience and the strong support system around him. With his release from the hospital on the horizon, there is a collective sense of anticipation and optimism for his return to the KTLA “Morning News” team.
