The broadcasting community and radio listeners around the world lost a familiar voice this Sunday when Kasem passed away after his health had been deteriorating.
Kasam had been hospitalized since June 1. He was suffering from dementia, sepsis, and Parkinsons disease.
According to USA Today, Kerri Kasem, his daughter, confirmed on Facebook, “Early this Father’s Day morning, our dad Casey Kasem passed away surrounded by family and friends. Even though we know he is in a better place and no longer suffering, we are heartbroken. Thank you for all your love, support and prayers. The world will miss Casey Kasem, an incredible talent and humanitarian; we will miss our Dad.”
Casey Kasem was a radio pioneer born April 27, 1932 to Lebanese immigrants in Detroit. He began his broadcast career while serving in the Korean War. In 1970, he began America’s Top 40 where he played the country’s top selling songs through 1988. He always closed his show with his famous line, “Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars.” In 1992 he was inducted as a member of the National Radio Hall of Fame and the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 1985.
Kasem also developed his career through television as the voice of Shaggy from the Scooby Doo series and many other characters on various programs. In the 1980’s he brought the style of radio to the small screen with his show, America’s Top 10.
The legacy and innovations Casey Kasem left behind will continue to enrich the American culture for generations to come.
Leave a Comment