Introduction

Journalism has lost one of its most steadfast voices. Jim Avila, a renowned correspondent for ABC News and contributor to the newsmagazine 20/20, died at the age of 69 after a prolonged battle with illness. While the cause of death was broadly described as a “long illness,” his legacy spans decades of groundbreaking coverage and unflinching truth-telling. This article delves into his life, career and lasting impact — while respectfully acknowledging the circumstances of his passing.

Who He Was

Jim Avila was born on July 26, 1955 (or 1956 according to some sources) in Lombard, Illinois. Over nearly fifty years in broadcasting, he became a trusted voice in American journalism — from local radio to national television. As a senior correspondent at ABC News, he covered politics, justice, the White House and major investigations. His work with “20/20” and other top outlets made him a fixture in the newsroom and a mentor to many. Recently trending news of his death – announced by ABC News on November 13, 2025 – has reminded the public of his vast influence.

Early Life & Childhood

Growing up in Illinois, Jim’s foundational years shaped his curiosity and pursuit of storytelling. He attended Glenbard East High School before embarking on a career in news. His early work in radio and local television laid the groundwork for the national prominence he would later achieve.

Family Background, Parents & Siblings

Jim’s family roots, while less publicized, included a brother who later donated a kidney to him—a poignant demonstration of their bond and his medical challenges. He also leaves behind three children: Jamie, Jenny and Evan. His personal life remained grounded even amid high-stakes reporting.

Education

While specific details of his higher education are not widely published, Avila’s early career trajectory began with radio in 1973 at KCBS in San Francisco and gradually moved into television journalism. His educational background paved the way for his sharp reporting and deep investigative work.

Career or Profession

Jim Avila’s career is distinguished by breadth and impact. He began in radio in the early 1970s, transitioned to television reporting, and by the 1990s served as investigative reporter for KNBC in Los Angeles. He covered high-profile trials (including O.J. Simpson and Michael Jackson), served as senior national correspondent at NBC, and joined ABC News where he worked for nearly two decades. From 2012 to 2016 he was ABC’s White House correspondent, and he later returned to local news in San Diego as an investigative reporter with KGTV.

His reporting earned him multiple awards: two National Emmy Awards, five Edward R. Murrow Awards, the Merriman Smith Award from the White House Correspondents’ Association, and recognition by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists.

Connection to the Trend

While this coverage centers on Jim Avila’s own journey, the current trend of his death has highlighted issues of journalist health, longevity, and legacy. Recent announcements noted that he died “after a long illness” and had previously undergone a kidney transplant donated by his brother. His departure from ABC in 2021 followed health complications; his return to reporting in San Diego signaled his enduring commitment to journalism.

Personal Life / Relationships

Jim Avila maintained a private personal life, but his story includes elements of resilience and family loyalty. His brother’s kidney donation, and his return to reporting after major health setbacks, speak to his determination. While his net worth is not publicly detailed, his significance lies less in financial metrics and more in journalistic integrity and mentorship.

Interesting Facts

1. Jim Avila covered U.S.–Cuba diplomatic relations for ABC News and earned the prestigious Merriman Smith Award.

2. He received a kidney transplant from his brother — an event publicly noted during his career.

3. At one point, he reported an average of 130 stories per year — one of the highest numbers for a minority correspondent at NBC Nightly News.

4. After leaving ABC News in 2021, he returned to local investigative reporting — demonstrating his continual drive despite serious health issues.

5. Though many reports list his age at death as 69, some sources give his birth year as 1955 and his age as 70 — reflecting minor discrepancies in public records.

 

Recent News / Updates

Jim Avila’s demise was confirmed by ABC News on November 13, 2025. He passed after a prolonged illness; while no specific cause has been publicly verified, complications from his prior health issues—including a transplant and a fall leading to hospice care—have been reported. The journalism community has issued tributes to his decades-long dedication, with ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic praising his “unwavering commitment to seeking out the truth.”

Conclusion

Jim Avila leaves behind a legacy defined by fearless reporting, incisive questions, and a deep respect for truth. From local radio to the White House press corps, his voice became one of integrity and clarity. While his passing at 69 after a long illness marks the end of an era, his influence continues — in the journalists he inspired, the stories he shaped, and the standard he set. He reminds us that journalism matters.

FAQ

Q1: Who was Jim Avila?
A: Jim Avila was a senior correspondent for ABC News and a reporter for “20/20.” He covered the White House, major legal cases and spent nearly 50 years in broadcast journalism.

Q2: What was the cause of Jim Avila’s death?
A: ABC News stated he died at age 69 after a “long illness.” No specific cause has been publicly confirmed; reports mention prior health issues including a kidney transplant and complications from a fall.

Q3: What were his major career highlights?
A: He earned multiple awards including the Merriman Smith Award for covering U.S.–Cuba relations, two Emmys, and five Murrow Awards. He served as an ABC White House correspondent (2012-2016) and later as a senior investigative reporter in San Diego.

Q4: What personal health challenges did he face?
A: Jim Avila underwent a kidney transplant donated by his brother and later left ABC News in 2021 due to health issues before returning to reporting locally.

Q5: Who survives him?
A: He is survived by his three children — Jamie, Jenny and Evan — and his family.