John Chancellor | $25 Million

The late John Chancellor was a beloved journalist who spent the bulk of his career with ABC News. Many regarded him as a pioneer when it comes to television news broadcasting. From 1970 to 1982, he served as the anchor of NBC Nightly News. After he left his post, Chancellor continued to produce commentaries and editorials for the same program until 1993. Throughout his career, Chancellor has received many accolades and recognitions, including his induction into the Television Hall of Fame in 1992.

Aside from his impressive legacy in journalism, Chancellor is also given credit for conceptualizing colors to represent the different states during presidential elections. If a Democratic candidate won, it would light up red, and if a Republican won, it would be blue. Today, different networks use this model, but with the colors switched. His legacy on television news continues to be unmatched.