Army Archerd, a reporter who spent over 50 years covering Hollywood with the trade publication Daily Variety, has died after a five year battle with mesothelioma. He was 87 years old.

Archerd was received a mesothelioma diagnosis as a result of asbestos exposure that occurred during his time in the Navy during World War II, his doctors said. Many naval and other seagoing vessels employed asbestos insulation and other asbestos materials, placing maritime workers at risk of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

Perhaps best known as the official greeter for televised coverage of the Academy Awards, Archerd broke his biggest story in 1985 when he announced that movie star Rock Hudson had been diagnosed with AIDS.

During his 50 year tenure at Variety, Archerd authored over 10,000 columns for the publication, ranging from bombshells like the Hudson story to Hollywood news and observations. During his time in Hollywood, Archerd became friends with a number of movie legends, including Kirk Douglas, Gregory Peck and Sidney Poitier.