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The Beat Poet Of Broadcast: 7 Shocking Facts About Pat Collins' Legendary 50-Year Career At NBC4

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The legacy of Pat Collins, the iconic Washington D.C. reporter known for his distinctive style and dramatic flair, remains a powerful force in local journalism, even after his retirement at the close of 2022. As of late 2025, his career—a remarkable 50-year run in the news business, with 36 years spent at NBC4 Washington (WRC-TV)—is still being celebrated and discussed, with his signature segments and unique reporting approach continuing to influence a new generation of journalists.

The veteran newsman, often dubbed the "beat poet" of local television, ended his run not with a whimper, but with a final sign-off that included bagpipes and his grandchildren, cementing his status as a true legend of the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) media landscape. While he may no longer be reporting on the daily "scene," his impact, from his viral costumed stunts to his deeply human crime reporting, ensures that the name Pat Collins is synonymous with Washington news.

Pat Collins: A Comprehensive Biographical Profile

Pat Collins is more than just a quirky reporter; he is a foundational figure in Washington's media history, a journalist who transitioned seamlessly from print to broadcast and cultivated a reporting style that was entirely his own. His career timeline and key biographical details provide the framework for understanding his enduring popularity.

  • Full Name: Pat Collins (Patrick Collins)
  • Age (as of late 2025): Approximately 79 (He was 76 at the time of his retirement in late 2022).
  • Primary Station: NBC4 Washington (WRC-TV)
  • Years at NBC4: 36 years (1986–2022).
  • Total Career Length: Nearly 50 years in the news business.
  • Early Career: Began as a print journalist for the Washington Daily News and later the Washington Star.
  • Signature Style: Known for his dramatic pauses, philosophical reflections, and a unique, often poetic, approach to covering local crime and weather stories.
  • Post-Retirement Activity: Author of the self-published memoir, Newsman.
  • Family: Married with children and grandchildren, who were featured in his final sign-off.

7 Unforgettable Moments That Defined Pat Collins' NBC4 Legacy

Pat Collins built his reputation not on breaking national headlines, but on delivering local, human-interest stories with a flair that made them unforgettable. His segments were appointment television, turning everyday events into cultural moments. These seven facts highlight the unique blend of seriousness and absurdity that defined his work.

1. The Viral "Grape Costume" Stunt

One of the most bizarre and beloved moments of his career was the "Grape Costume" story. In a classic example of his commitment to getting the full story, Collins donned a full grape suit to interview a 14-year-old autistic boy who had been suspended for wearing a banana costume to school. This absurd act of solidarity and dedication to a seemingly minor story went globally viral, perfectly illustrating his commitment to defending the underdog and using humor to highlight a serious issue of school policy.

2. The Reign of the "Pat Collins Snow Stick"

For decades, the "Pat Collins Snow Stick" was the definitive, and often humorous, measure of snowfall in the D.C. area. A simple wooden stick with markings, it became a cultural icon and a source of local pride during winter storms. Even after his retirement, the Snow Stick remains a fixture, with NBC4 occasionally referencing it or featuring its return, proving its enduring legacy as a symbol of local weather reporting.

3. Self-Publishing His Memoir, Newsman

In his post-retirement life, Collins has continued to share his experiences, most notably by self-publishing his memoir, titled Newsman. The book is described as a "Pat Collins buffet," featuring a collection of his most memorable and chilling crime stories from his decades on the beat, offering fans a deep, unfiltered look into the stories that shaped his career and the Washington region.

4. The "Beat Poet" Reporting Style

Collins' style was distinctively literary, earning him the moniker "beat poet" of local news. His crime and human-interest reports were often characterized by dramatic pauses, philosophical musings, and a cadence that was more akin to spoken-word poetry than traditional broadcast journalism. This unique storytelling method allowed him to connect with viewers on a deeper, emotional level, transforming mundane or tragic events into compelling narratives.

5. The Viral Mistaken Identity Song

Collins' reporting often became viral content. One notable instance was a story he covered on a case of mistaken identity that was so compelling and uniquely delivered that a popular musical group, The Gregory Brothers, turned the entire segment into a viral song. This moment highlighted how his singular delivery style transcended local news to become a national internet phenomenon.

6. His Place Among NBC4's Giants

Pat Collins is considered part of a legendary generation of journalists at NBC4 Washington (WRC-TV). His contemporaries included other giants of the local media landscape, such as beloved anchor Jim Vance, sports reporter Bob Ryan, and anchor Doreen Gentzler. His 36-year tenure solidified his position alongside these figures, creating a golden era of local news that viewers trusted implicitly.

7. Continuing to Comment on Local Issues in Retirement

Even after officially retiring, Collins has occasionally weighed in on major local matters, demonstrating his continued connection to the community. For example, he offered his strong opinion on the potential return of the Washington Commanders (formerly the Redskins) to RFK Stadium, calling football in Washington "like a religion" and RFK "hallowed ground." These occasional appearances and comments keep his voice current and relevant to the D.C. political and cultural scene, proving he is still very much a part of the city's conversation.

The Enduring Topical Authority of Pat Collins

The topical authority of Pat Collins extends far beyond his on-air reporting. His influence is rooted in his commitment to the local community and his ability to humanize every story, whether it was a major crime or a lighthearted feature. He wasn't just a reporter; he was a community fixture, often seen wearing his signature fedora while chasing down a story.

His work on the crime beat was particularly impactful, as he possessed a rare ability to give a voice to victims and bystanders, often providing an "X-Ray into his soul" to connect with the emotional core of a situation. This deep-seated empathy and willingness to be vulnerable on camera set him apart from his peers, making his retirement a significant loss for Washington journalism.

The continued use of the Snow Stick and the celebration of his viral moments confirm that his legacy is not just historical, but an active part of the NBC4 brand and the D.C. cultural memory. As he enjoys his retirement, his memoir provides a crucial historical document, preserving the unique stories and the singular style of one of the region's most celebrated and unforgettable newsmen.

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