It is with a heavy heart that KCEN 6 News and the Central Texas community mourn the passing of longtime evening anchor Kris Radcliffe, who died unexpectedly on Wednesday. The news of his death has left his family, colleagues, and viewers devastated, and his family has requested privacy as they grieve this profound loss.
The news of Radcliffe’s passing was shared by Rob Dwyer, President and General Manager of KCEN/KAGS, who expressed heartfelt words about the beloved anchor and his impact on the community. “KCEN and the Central Texas community lost a truly wonderful person,” Dwyer stated. “Kris Radcliffe, husband, father, grandfather, and anchor for KCEN and the community, will be missed. Kris was a kind and generous person who elevated everyone he was around. It is hard to say goodbye.”
Kris Radcliffe was much more than just a familiar face on the television screen; he was a respected journalist, a mentor, and a friend to many. He joined KCEN in 2002 and spent over two decades committed to bringing Central Texas accurate, reliable, and compassionate reporting. Over the years, he became an integral part of KCEN 6 News and earned a reputation for his warm demeanor, trustworthy presence, and deep connection with viewers. His voice and face were synonymous with the community’s evening news, guiding audiences through major events and local stories with clarity and empathy.
Radcliffe’s career at KCEN began in the sports department, where he served as a sports anchor and won the hearts of sports fans across Central Texas. His deep love for sports and his enthusiastic personality made him an instant favorite among viewers. Known for his in-depth sports coverage, Kris brought excitement to local sports reporting, covering everything from high school football games to professional teams. His understanding of sports extended beyond scores and highlights; he connected with the athletes, coaches, and fans and always had a way of sharing the stories behind the games. Whether it was a heartwarming underdog story or a thrilling championship match, Kris’s sports reports always felt personal and insightful.
After years in sports, Radcliffe transitioned into a morning anchor role on “Texas Today,” a position he held for several years. In the early hours of each day, he greeted viewers with a warm smile, waking up the community with the latest news, weather, and inspiring stories. His professionalism, coupled with his genuine warmth and humor, made the morning broadcasts a favorite among viewers. He became a steady, reassuring presence on Texas Today, covering everything from local events to breaking national news, and was known for his ability to engage audiences with grace and relatability. The morning show team became like a family to Kris, and together they created a sense of community among their viewers, who tuned in daily to hear Kris’s take on the latest developments.
Eventually, Kris moved into the role of evening anchor for 6 News, where he covered breaking news and provided in-depth analysis of important events. From the 5, 6, and 10 p.m. broadcasts, he was the trusted voice guiding Central Texans through the highs and lows of local, national, and international news. Kris covered some of the region’s most memorable moments, including natural disasters, community achievements, and significant political events. His commitment to fair and balanced reporting earned him the respect of viewers across different backgrounds and perspectives. He was not just a news anchor; he was an advocate for truth, an ally to those who needed a voice, and a listener to the community he served.
Beyond his work in the newsroom, Radcliffe was deeply embedded in Central Texas life. He was frequently seen at community events, fundraisers, and local functions, giving back to the community that welcomed him so warmly. His kindness and compassion were felt by everyone who met him, and he never hesitated to use his platform to support meaningful causes. He championed community service initiatives, worked with local charities, and mentored young journalists. Many aspiring reporters and students credit Kris with inspiring them to pursue careers in journalism, citing his dedication and encouragement as instrumental in their journeys. To them, Kris was more than a mentor; he was a role model who exemplified integrity and dedication.
For his family, Kris was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He often spoke fondly of his family on air, and his colleagues say his family was at the core of everything he did. Kris’s pride in his children and grandchildren was evident, and he often shared stories of their accomplishments and adventures, bringing a personal touch to his broadcasts that endeared him to viewers. His wife, children, and grandchildren were a constant source of joy, and he cherished every moment with them. His family, in turn, supported him through the long hours and demanding nature of a career in journalism, understanding the importance of his work and the dedication he held for the community.
The suddenness of his passing has left a void not only at KCEN but throughout Central Texas. Many viewers feel they have lost a friend, and colleagues remember Kris as someone who brought joy, laughter, and a sense of unity to the newsroom. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, viewers, and local leaders, all sharing stories of how Kris touched their lives. KCEN 6 News has created a special segment dedicated to Kris’s memory, where they plan to highlight his career, share memories from colleagues, and showcase the impact he had on Central Texas.
The community has come together to honor Kris’s legacy. Viewers have taken to social media, sharing photos, personal anecdotes, and messages of gratitude. “He was a part of our family every evening,” one viewer commented. “He felt like a friend, someone we trusted to tell us what was going on in our world.” Another viewer wrote, “Kris had a way of making you feel like you knew him personally. He cared about us, and you could see that every time he was on the screen.”
KCEN 6 News plans to hold a public memorial in the coming days to celebrate Kris’s life and contributions to journalism and the Central Texas community. It will be an opportunity for everyone who knew and admired him to pay their respects and share stories of the profound impact he had on their lives. The station will also provide resources for grief support, understanding that Kris’s sudden passing will take time to process for his colleagues and viewers.
Though Kris Radcliffe is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the stories he told, and the community he loved. His commitment to his work, his family, and his community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. In a world that often feels divided, Kris brought people together, embodying the very best of what it means to be a journalist, a friend, and a neighbor. His presence will be dearly missed, but his impact will continue to be felt in Central Texas for years to come.
