Arthur Ferguson obit

 

Charlie Tuna, Los Angeles Radio Legend, Dies at 71

Tuna's voice set the tone for KROQ-FM as the influential station tweaked its format for a rock audience.

He was not on the list.

Charlie Tuna, the DJ and media personality whose voice was known to generations of radio listeners in Los Angeles and further afield, has died at the age of 71.

Tuna was the morning drive-time radio personality for numerous formats and stations across a four decade career and his voice set the tone for KROQ-FM as the influential station tweaked its format for a rock audience. He was part of the KHJ Boss Jock line-up and served as program director and morning host for KIIS AM and FM.

Tuna was presented with his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1990 and a string of accolades followed, including recognition from his home state Nebraska Broadcasters Association with entry into the Hall of Fame in 1999. He was voted as a Top 10 radio personalities in L.A. on several occasions and in 2008 was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame.

Tuna was also announcer for various TV shows ranging including America’s Top 10 with Casey Kasem and he hosted the internationally syndicated Cinema, Cinema, Cinema for 30 years.

Tuna “passed away peacefully in his sleep” on Feb. 19, according to a statement published on his website. “His was a life well-lived,” the statement continues, “and he will always be remembered for the joy, laughter and love of music he brought to many throughout the world with his presence on the radio. All who knew him will sadly miss him.”

His family has asked that donations be made to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Tuna raised almost $2.5 million for the hospital with his annual “Tunathon.”

 

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