Fishman gets messages of support over cancer fight

Hundreds of messages from viewers poured in Friday wishing KTLA-TV Channel 5 anchor Hal Fishman a speedy recovery and return to his 10 p.m. newscast.

Fishman, 75, was hospitalized earlier this week after collapsing at his home and has since been diagnosed with colon cancer, station officials said Friday.

Doctors were treating Fishman for an infection he suffered after the collapse when they discovered the cancer, which has spread to his liver, said interim news director Rich Goldner.

“Hal is awake and thanks everyone for their well wishes and says he is going to fight this illness,” Goldner said. “He is looking forward to coming back when he gets better.”

By midday Friday, nearly 500 messages were posted on the station’s website. Read one: “Hal, feel better soon. Come back soon!! My husband and I watch you every night!”

Fishman, a news veteran of more than 45 years, has anchored the station’s 10 p.m. newscast since 1975.

Carlos Amezcua, co-anchor of the “KTLA Morning Show,” will fill in for Fishman next week.

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greg.braxton@latimes.com