Charles Porter Jr., Who Was Houston’s First Black TV Reporter, Passed Away Recently

Porter Jr.’s tenure at ABC 13 spanned from 1971 through 1978, and it was during this time that he established his reputation not just for his deep voice but also for his in-depth news reporting and documentary work.

A member of Houston’s first Black television news reporter and producer has passed away, and this tragedy has befallen his family.

The Houston Chronicle reports that Charles Porter Jr., who worked at ABC 13 from 1971 to 1978, died suddenly on Monday, October 2, after battling a prolonged illness for which the root cause could not be identified. Porter worked at ABC 13 from 1971 until 1978. He clocked in at 81 years.

Porter, who is well-known for his deep voice in addition to his extensive news reporting and documentary projects, started his career in radio at KCOH-AM, then worked at KTSU-FM, and then worked as the news director at KYOK-AM.

Porter is best recognized for his work in all of these areas. One of the things that helps people to recognize him the most is his rich voice.

Throughout his career, he devoted much of his time to acting as a mentor to journalism students and younger reporters. One of the mentees he guided was the now-seasoned journalist Melanie Lawson from ABC 13.

After learning of Porter’s demise, Lawson stated on X: “Charles was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met, and he took me under his wing at ABC 13 Houston as an intern.” Lawson was aware of Porter’s dying away at this point.

While employed at ABC 13, he directed the documentary “The Sweet By & By,” about African American churches and was nominated for multiple prizes.

In addition 1972, he produced a special show dedicated to the late Barbara Jordan. He documented the historic occasion of her inauguration in Washington as the first Black woman elected to represent the South in the United States House of Representatives.

This program was broadcast on television. Barbara Jordan had passed away the previous year.

Porter is survived by two daughters, two sons, 17 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 14 grandchildren from a previous marriage.

Lawson said on X that the individual “truly set the gold standard for so many of us.” “My deepest condolences go out to his family.”