Harlem-born broadcaster Jim Boyd, who rose to prominence as a longtime news anchor in Boston, died Tuesday at the age of 84. His death followed a period of health issues, though the specific cause has not been publicly disclosed.
Boyd's nearly four-decade tenure at Boston's WCVB-TV concluded with his retirement in 2008. He was remembered by colleagues and viewers as a "true gentleman" and a trusted source of news for generations.
Born in New York City in 1942, Boyd attended public schools and graduated from George Washington High School. His early college years at Long Island University were marked by academic dismissal, a setback he later recalled as a turning point.
"The one thing that I didn’t know is that it was too much of a burden and too much of a sacrifice of my parents for me to just blow it entirely," Boyd told WCVB in a 2014 interview.
He began his broadcasting career in New York City, working his way up from the mailroom at National Educational Television to producer. The industry's creative and journalistic aspects ignited his passion.
In 1972, Boyd moved to Boston to join WCVB as a reporter. He eventually transitioned to anchoring weekend and midday newscasts, becoming a familiar face to viewers across the region. His career was recognized with a Golden Circle award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences’ New England chapter in 2011 and induction into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame the following year.
Boyd continued his education long after entering the workforce, earning a bachelor's degree in sociology from Tufts University at age 71 in 2013.
Following his retirement from news, Boyd pursued an acting career, appearing in films such as "American Hustle," "Patriots Day," and "Manchester by the Sea." He also dedicated time to coaching youth sports and engaging with community organizations.
His wife, Linda Polach, described Boyd as someone who treated everyone with equal respect, regardless of their background or status. Boyd is survived by Polach and their three daughters.