Rob Roblin Obituary-Death News; Rob ‘Robbie’ Roblin, Legendary Reporter Dies at 79
The WBAL-TV family is mourning the loss of our beloved friend and legendary Baltimore reporter, Rob Roblin, who passed away Monday night, shortly after turning 79.
Known to all on TV Hill as “Robbie,” Roblin was more than just a newsman — he was a Baltimore icon whose passion for storytelling and unmistakable on-air presence made him one of the most cherished voices in local journalism.
Over the course of his remarkable career, Roblin reported on thousands of stories during five separate stints with WBAL-TV, the final one lasting an incredible 24 years.
Whether he was covering breaking news, community features, or feel-good human-interest pieces, Rob’s warmth, authenticity, and unfiltered humor resonated deeply with viewers. He wasn’t just delivering the news — he was living it alongside the people of Baltimore.
Rob’s live hurricane coverage became the stuff of legend. Drenched by stinging rain and whipped by punishing winds, he would shout into the microphone with an energy that was both urgent and oddly comforting.
“This is the Bayside Beach community, and the wind’s right in my face … It’s starting to sting,” he once reported, unwavering in his commitment to getting the story — even when the elements were against him.
He also had a gift for finding the quirky and under-told stories — like his unforgettable feature on the local delicacy, muskrat — always managing to strike the perfect balance between information and entertainment.
His report on a Valentine’s Day cruise, featuring his signature self-deprecating humor and antics with his “stupid hat” and “stupid shirt,” remains one of the most beloved segments in WBAL-TV history.
His comedic timing and genuine laughter made viewers feel like they were in on the joke with an old friend. But beyond the humor and bravado, Roblin’s heart defined him.
His years of participation in the Polar Bear Plunge for Special Olympics Maryland, even at the risk of hypothermia, showed just how deeply he cared about the causes he believed in.
That same heart extended to every story he told — he didn’t just report on people, he understood them. He loved Baltimore fiercely, and the city loved him right back. Colleagues and public figures alike have shared their memories of Rob.
Congressman Kweisi Mfume tweeted, “Rob Roblin was one of the friendliest persons I’ve ever known… He loved his work and people loved him.” Fellow WBAL-TV anchor Deborah Weiner added, “If Rob was on the story, you better watch. May his memory be a blessing.”
Robbie retired from WBAL-TV in 2014, but his spirit and legacy have remained alive in every newsroom he touched and every heart he reached. He once said, “What you have to be is real… And if you will do those things and be honest with yourself, [Baltimore] will love you.” And love him, we did — and always will.
Rest easy, Robbie. Baltimore won’t be the same without you.
