Craig Savage, a beloved and longtime cameraman for Fox News Channel, has passed away at the age of 61. He died on Sunday after a valiant battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence at the network he helped shape since its inception.

Savage joined Fox News on October 3, 1996, just days before the network launched, and quickly became an integral part of its success. Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott and President and Executive Editor Jay Wallace broke the sad news to staff on Monday, hailing him as a "pioneering force" in the network's history.

"Shortly after joining the network, Craig's exceptional skills and creative eye were quickly recognized by our then-Washington bureau chief Kim Hume, who assigned Craig to the White House unit, a role he honorably fulfilled throughout his career here," Scott and Wallace shared in their statement. Savage's work behind the camera allowed Fox News to deliver some of its most memorable content, including its first presidential interview with then-President Clinton.

Over the years, Savage's expertise became indispensable during pivotal moments in American and world history. From running the Fox floor camera during the 2000 and 2004 presidential conventions to covering nearly every presidential interview that followed, his impact was far-reaching. His versatility and technical prowess were unmatched, particularly during the industry's shift from analog to digital technologies, where his contributions made him a trusted figure for his colleagues.

"It was his troubleshooting prowess in particular that made him the go-to person for any complex challenge, mainly when it came to ensuring flawless live shots from the White House," Scott and Wallace noted. Savage's commitment to his craft was evident when he chose to act as an engineer on a major pool trip during then-President Clinton's historic visit to Africa — a decision that prioritized teamwork over personal opportunity.

Savage's career highlights also included his stealth and skill during sensitive assignments, such as then-President George W. Bush's secret Thanksgiving trip to Iraq in 2003 and President Trump's covert visit to Afghanistan in 2019. His ability to deliver footage under some of the most challenging conditions reflected his dedication to excellence.

In recent years, Craig expanded his repertoire by embracing drone technology, contributing hundreds of flight hours to Fox News’ coverage of stories ranging from natural disasters to border issues. "He truly left an indelible mark on Fox News and shaped the careers of many," Scott and Wallace concluded, emphasizing the profound influence Savage had on his colleagues and the industry at large.

Savage is survived by his wife, Fox News senior producer Anne Marie Riha, as well as his sons Jake, Andrew, and Maxwell, daughter-in-law Alexa, stepchildren Zachary and Carly Norins, and grandchildren Sloane and Evander Savage. His loss will be deeply felt by those who knew him and by the network he helped build from the ground up.

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Beloved Fox News Cameraman Craig Savage Passes Away at 61