Bill Shields dead at 70: Iconic WBZ TV reporter dies after courageous battle with cancer

Legendary New England WBZ-TV reporter Bill Shields died Friday night after a tough battle with cancer.

The 70-year-old reporter is known for his charming personality and passionate reporting.

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WBZ-TV President and General Manager Justin Draper offered his condolences to Shields’ family and friends.

“I had the pleasure of working with Bill in the mid/late 2000s. Bill had an amazing ability to tell personal stories with humanity, dignity and grace,” he said.

According to CBS, Shields reported for WBZ for more than 41 years before retiring in September 2021.

“My condolences and prayers go out to all of Bill’s family and friends,” added Draper.

Colleagues at Sheilds shared fond memories of the dedicated reporter.

“Just thinking about his laugh makes me smile on a day when I’m so, so sad. rest in peace We love you,” said WBZ-TV host Lisa Hughes.

WBZ TV presenter Paula Ebben also expressed her admiration for the New Englander who had turned from Texas.

“Bill Shields took something from life. He was my friend, but really – he was everyone’s friend. A Texan boy who embraced New England and loved telling stories here,” she wrote in a tweet.

When he wasn’t facing severe weather and storms outside, Shields was battling his own medical battles.

The reporter fought cancer twice during his career and always kept his courage.

Last November, Shields announced that he had been diagnosed with Upstage Lung Cancer.

“I have a different kind of cancer now. I have two types! It’s a long way mentally, but we’ll get through it. We’re still laughing,” Shields said.

His fans have always supported the legendary reporter. And his wife Katherine never left his side.