John Sterling obit

John Sterling, longtime radio voice of Yankees, dies at 87

 

He was not on the list.

John Sterling, the radio voice of the New York Yankees for parts of 36 seasons, has died. He was 87.

Sterling's death was announced Monday by New York-based WFAN Sports Radio and confirmed by the Yankees.

Sterling joined the Yankees' broadcast in 1989, calling 5,420 regular-season games and 211 postseason games before retiring in April 2024. The native New Yorker was in the booth for 5,060 consecutive games from September 1989 to July 2019, when he missed a series with an illness.

"We are devastated to hear about the passing of John Sterling, a WFAN and Yankees radio icon whose voice was synonymous with an entire generation of Yankee fandom," WFAN said in a statement.

Sterling was on the air for 24 Yankees postseason trips, seven World Series appearances and five World Series titles.

Known for his signature "The Yankees win!" victory call and his personalized home run calls, Sterling spent his last 20 seasons with the Yankees working alongside Suzyn Waldman.

"Through his unique style and passionate play-by-play calls, Sterling endeared himself to generations of players and fans as radio voice of the Yankees from 1989 to 2024," Major League Baseball said in a statement. "His signature punctuation of Yankees victories included calling the final out of five World Series championships."

Gary Lydon obit

Irish actor and Banshees of Inisherin star Gary Lydon dies aged 61

 

He was not on the list.

Gary Lydon, an Irish actor best known for his role in Martin McDonagh‘s The Banshees of Inisherin, has passed away at the age of 61.

The news reportedly came via way of his son James Doherty O’Brien, who issued a statement on behalf of the family, which announced that “the loss of our Dad is a huge shock and deep loss for us all”.

His son added, “He will be sorely missed by me and my brother Seanluke, our mother Kara, his beloved partner Paula, and her daughter Aoife, and all his brothers and extended family.”

In the critically acclaimed surrealist comedy The Banshees of Inisherin, Lydon played the abusive father of the troubled youth, Dominic Kearney, played by Beatle-to-be Barry Keoghan.

Additionally, Lydon has starred in movies such as Brooklyn, The Guard, and Calvary. He also enjoyed success in different television roles, such as Pure Mule, Love/Hate, and The Clinic, for which he earned an Irish Film and Television Award.

He concluded, “Despite all his success and achievements, his greatest pride was being a father. We will miss the many ways he loved and protected us. We will carry all our amazing memories with him forever in our hearts.”

Reflecting on his tragic passing, a spokesperson for the Wexford Arts Centre has shared, “Gary had only recently returned to our stage as the magnificent Phil in the terrific production of Of Mornington by Billy Roche, directed by Pete McCamley of Ad Personam Cultural Events who also co-produced the production with Gary Lydon Productions.”

They added, “Gary had honed his craft as one of the finest actors in Ireland on the Wexford Arts Centre stage in many of Billy Roche’s plays. He forged a stellar career performing across Ireland & the UK.”

Lydon was born in London in 1964; as a child, he moved to Wexford town, where his most recent production of Of Mornington took place.

 

Actor

The Sandy Banks

Daniel

Post-production

 

One Sweet Hour

Gerry Byrne

Post-production

 

Gillian Anderson and Lola Petticrew in Trespasses (2025)

Trespasses

7.2

TV Series

Father Slattery

2025

2 episodes

 

Crazy Love (2025)

Crazy Love

8.4

Executive Chairman

2025

 

Punt (2025)

Punt

Short

2025

 

Bodkin (2024)

Bodkin

6.9

TV Series

Desy McArdle

2024

1 episode

 

Vanilla (2024)

Vanilla

Short

Joe

2024

 

Barber (2023)

Barber

5.1

Johnny Mulligan

2023

 

Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson in The Banshees of Inisherin (2022)

The Banshees of Inisherin

7.6

Peadar Kearney

2022

 

Lakelands (2022)

Lakelands

6.5

Bernie

2022

 

An Encounter (2022)

An Encounter

6.9

Short

The Man

2022

 

Sprachlos in Irland (2022)

Sprachlos in Irland

5.9

TV Movie

Geistlicher

2022

 

Lalor Roddy in Harvest (2021)

Harvest

7.5

Short

Aidan

2021

 

The Lucky Man (2020)

The Lucky Man

8.6

Short

Terry

2020

 

Tristan Heanue and John Connors in Broken Law (2020)

Broken Law

5.7

Superintendent Byrne

2020

 

Hazel Doupe in Ciúnas (Silence) (2019)

Ciúnas (Silence)

6.2

Short

Gerry

2019

 

Moth (2019)

Moth

5.9

Short

Ciarán

2019

 

Too Shall Pass (2015)

6am News

Short

Slab

2017

 

Striking Out (2017)

Striking Out

7.7

TV Series

Judge Harrison

2017

1 episode

 

The Flag (2016)

The Flag

6.1

Foley

2016

 

Too Shall Pass (2015)

Too Shall Pass

Short

Slab

2015

 

Saoirse Ronan in Brooklyn (2015)

Brooklyn

7.5

Mr Farrell

2015

 

The Hallow (2015)

The Hallow

5.7

Doyle

2015

 

The Guarantee (2014)

The Guarantee

5.8

Brian Cowen

2014

 

Love/Hate (2010)

Love/Hate

8.4

TV Series

Chief Superintendent

2014

1 episode

 

Brendan Gleeson in Calvary (2014)

Calvary

7.4

Inspector Stanton

2014

 

Clive Owen and Andrea Riseborough in Shadow Dancer (2012)

Shadow Dancer

6.2

Geoff

2012

 

Jeremy Irvine in War Horse (2011)

War Horse

7.2

Si Easton

2011

 

Stella Days (2011)

Stella Days

5.9

Larry

2011

 

Don Cheadle and Brendan Gleeson in The Guard (2011)

The Guard

7.3

Gerry Stanton

2011

 

The Clinic (2003)

The Clinic

6.9

TV Series

Patrick Murray

2003–2009

63 episodes

 

Martin (2008)

Martin

7.8

Short

Martin

2008

 

Small Engine Repair (2006)

Small Engine Repair

6.4

Big Eddy

2006

 

Pure Mule (2005)

Pure Mule

7.6

TV Series

Bomber Brennan

2005

4 episodes

 

David Leon in Boy Eats Girl (2005)

Boy Eats Girl

4.9

Garda Sergeant

2005

 

Six Shooter (2004)

Six Shooter

7.4

Short

Chief Guard

2004

 

Rory Keenan in On Home Ground (2001)

On Home Ground

6.9

TV Series

Cathal O'Connor

2001–2002

11 episodes

 

Anne-Marie Duff in Sinners (2002)

Sinners

7.6

TV Movie

Patrick

2002

 

Fergus's Wedding

7.4

TV Series

Shay

2002

2 episodes

 

Sunday (2002)

Sunday

7.0

TV Movie

Family Barrister

2002

 

Country (2000)

Country

7.3

Con Murphy

2000

 

The Second Death (2000)

The Second Death

6.1

Short

Gerry

2000

 

Ordinary Decent Criminal (2000)

Ordinary Decent Criminal

6.3

Tom Rooney

2000

 

The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns (1999)

The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns

7.0

TV Mini Series

Dunlang the DullahanJames Fitzpatrick

1999

2 episodes

 

Ian Holm, Laura Murphy, and Tom Walsh in Shergar (1999)

Shergar

5.4

Det. Sergeant Malen

1999

 

Jane Birkin, Maggie Smith, Michael Gambon, Keeley Hawes, Fiona Shaw, and Lambert Wilson in The Last September (1999)

The Last September

6.0

Peter Connolly

1999

 

Amongst Women (1998)

Amongst Women

7.6

TV Mini Series

Mark

1998

2 episodes

 

A Soldier's Song (1997)

A Soldier's Song

8.6

Short

Tony Doyle

1997

 

Cary Elwes and Timothy Dalton in The Informant (1997)

The Informant

6.3

Det. McDonough

1997

 

Liam Neeson in Michael Collins (1996)

Michael Collins

7.1

Squad Youth #1

1996

 

Ian Hart, Michael Gambon, and James Frain in Nothing Personal (1995)

Nothing Personal

6.8

Eddie

1995

 

Bramwell (1995)

Bramwell

7.8

TV Series

Ned Stebbings

1995

1 episode

 

Linus Roache and Lia Williams in Seaforth (1994)

Seaforth

8.4

TV Mini Series

Arthur Spence

1994

9 episodes

 

Ailsa (1994)

Ailsa

7.9

Jack

1994

 

George and Ramona (1994)

George and Ramona

Short

George

1994

 

Belfry (1993)

Belfry

TV Movie

Father Pat

1993

 

A Handful of Stars

7.1

TV Movie

Jimmy

1993

 

Poor Beast in the Rain

7.8

TV Movie

Georgie

1993

 

Self

4th Irish Film and Television Awards

7.3

TV Special

Self

2007

David Kendall obit

Television Producer David Kendall Dies at 68

 

He was not on the list.

Prominent television writer, director, and executive producer David Kendall passed away at the age of 68 on Saturday, May 2, 2026. The veteran creator was a foundational figure for the hit 1990s sitcom Boy Meets World, serving as the showrunner during its second and third seasons.

The news was confirmed by former cast members Will Friedle, Rider Strong, and Danielle Fishel via their Pod Meets World podcast social media channels. Kendall's career spanned four decades, during which he contributed to several major network projects, including the creation of Growing Pains and development roles for Disney Channel's Hannah Montana.

The podcast hosts released a joint statement honoring the producer's extensive contributions to the series and their personal professional growth. They credited him with shaping the narrative direction of the show during its most pivotal years.

"We have lost a vital piece of our family," stated the cast of Boy Meets World in a social media post.

The trio highlighted that Kendall's influence reached beyond their own careers, noting his work in mentoring numerous young stars who eventually became industry leaders. His portfolio of talent development included working with Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, Austin Butler, and Zendaya during their early years in Hollywood.

"To say that David Kendall was instrumental in the creation of Boy Meets World would be an understatement. He directed, wrote and executive produced our show, but also helped mold some of TV’s most memorable sitcoms, from Growing Pains to Hannah Montana," said Pod Meets World hosts Will Friedle, Rider Strong, and Danielle Fishel.

The actors encouraged fans to revisit specific episodes produced under Kendall's leadership as a way to honor his creative memory. They specifically pointed to the early-to-mid-90s era of the show as a reflection of his specific storytelling style.

"The next time you watch the show, especially Seasons 2 & 3 (when he served as showrunner), think of our beloved Kendall," requested the cast members.

David Kendall Career Credits

Show   Role     Years

Boy Meets World        Writer, Director, Executive Producer, Showrunner (S2-3)     1993-2000

Growing Pains Creator, Executive Producer   1980s-1990s

Hannah Montana         Executive Producer, Developer          2006-2011

Notable Young Stars Mentored           Zendaya, Miley Cyrus, Austin Butler, Jonas Brothers            Various

Audiences responded to the announcement with condolences, citing the impact of his work on their childhood entertainment. One Instagram follower noted that hearing behind-the-scenes stories about Kendall on the podcast had made him a fan-favorite figure among the show's community.

"One of my favorite parts of the podcast has been getting to hear from the people behind the scenes, who made the show tick, and anything involving him was always amazing to hear," wrote an Instagram commenter.

 

Another viewer shared their sympathies directly with the actors who viewed the producer as a career guide.

 

"So sorry for your loss of a mentor and a friend," added another social media user.

Kendall's frequent appearances on the Pod Meets World podcast provided listeners with insights into his forty-year tenure in the television industry. His passing marks a significant loss for the community of creators who worked under his direction across multiple networks.

Producer

Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love (2020)

Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love

6.7

TV Series

executive producer

2020

15 episodes

 

Melissa & Joey (2010)

Melissa & Joey

7.0

TV Series

executive producer

2010–2015

104 episodes

 

Eric Mabius, Eddie Kaye Thomas, and Autumn Reeser in Nature of the Beast (2007)

Nature of the Beast

5.2

TV Movie

executive producer

2007

 

Tim Curry, Gary Cole, Caitlin Wachs, Sasha Pieterse, and Jimmy 'Jax' Pinchak in Family Affair (2002)

Family Affair

5.2

TV Series

co-executive producer

2002–2003

 

Joanna Kerns, Alan Thicke, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Ashley Johnson, and Jeremy Miller in The Growing Pains Movie (2000)

The Growing Pains Movie

5.0

TV Movie

executive producer

2000

 

Danielle Fishel, Ben Savage, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong in Boy Meets World (1993)

Boy Meets World

8.1

TV Series

executive producer

1994–2000

132 episodes

 

Robert Hays and Shelley Long in Kelly Kelly (1998)

Kelly Kelly

6.5

TV Series

executive producer

1998

7 episodes

 

Cara DeLizia, Mitch Mullany, and Arjay Smith in Nick Freno: Licensed Teacher (1996)

Nick Freno: Licensed Teacher

7.2

TV Series

consulting producer

1996

1 episode

 

Joanna Kerns, Alan Thicke, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Ashley Johnson, and Jeremy Miller in Growing Pains (1985)

Growing Pains

6.6

TV Series

co-executive producerproducer

1988–1991

72 episodes

 

Director

Jensen Gering and Ava Ro in Erin & Aaron (2023)

Erin & Aaron

5.6

TV Series

Director

2023

1 episode

 

Mario Lopez and Jana Kramer in Steppin' Into the Holiday (2022)

Steppin' Into the Holiday

6.5

TV Movie

Director

2022

 

Wolfgang Schaeffer and Jahzir Bruno in The Really Loud House (2022)

The Really Loud House

5.4

TV Series

Directordirected by

2022

2 episodes

 

Mitchell Berg, Isaiah Crews, Jacques Chevelle, Jayden Bartels, and Jules LeBlanc in Side Hustle (2020)

Side Hustle

5.6

TV Series

Director

2021–2022

4 episodes

 

Ian Reed Kesler and Ruth Righi in Sydney to the Max (2019)

Sydney to the Max

6.5

TV Series

Director

2019–2021

11 episodes

 

Country Comfort (2021)

Country Comfort

6.8

TV Series

Director

2021

2 episodes

 

Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love (2020)

Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love

6.7

TV Series

Director

2020

1 episode

 

Luca Luhan, Terrence Little Gardenhigh, Havan Flores, Cooper Barnes, and Dana Heath in Danger Force (2020)

Danger Force

4.1

TV Series

directed by

2020

1 episode

 

Kai Calhoun, Alison Fernandez, Bryana Salaz, Elie Samouhi, Symera Jackson, and Eliza Pryor in Team Kaylie (2019)

Team Kaylie

4.9

TV Series

Director

2019–2020

2 episodes

 

Coop and Cami Ask the World (2018)

Coop and Cami Ask the World

5.9

TV Series

Director

2018–2019

8 episodes

 

Cooper Barnes and Jace Norman in Henry Danger (2014)

Henry Danger

6.4

TV Series

Director

2015–2019

9 episodes

 

Kel Mitchell, Madisyn Shipman, Benjamin Flores Jr., Thomas Kuc, and Cree in Game Shakers (2015)

Game Shakers

4.8

TV Series

Director

2015–2019

11 episodes

 

Lexi DiBenedetto, Amarr, Lilimar, Owen Patrick Joyner, Savannah Lee Nassif, and Daniella Taylor in Knight Squad (2018)

Knight Squad

5.6

TV Series

Director

2019

1 episode

 

Madison Hu and Olivia Rodrigo in Bizaardvark (2016)

Bizaardvark

4.2

TV Series

Director

2016–2019

14 episodes

 

Peyton Elizabeth Lee in Andi Mack (2017)

Andi Mack

7.3

TV Series

Director

2018

1 episode

 

Jenna Ortega in Stuck in the Middle (2016)

Stuck in the Middle

6.4

TV Series

Director

2016–2018

15 episodes

 

Kirby Buckets (2014)

Kirby Buckets

5.0

TV Series

Director

2014–2016

9 episodes

 

Casey Simpson, Mace Coronel, Aidan Gallagher, and Lizzy Greene in Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn (2014)

Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn

5.6

TV Series

Director

2016

2 episodes

 

Zendaya in K.C. Undercover (2015)

K.C. Undercover

6.5

TV Series

Director

2016

1 episode

 

Landry Bender and Lauren Taylor in Best Friends Whenever (2015)

Best Friends Whenever

6.0

TV Series

Director

2015

1 episode

 

Melissa & Joey (2010)

Melissa & Joey

7.0

TV Series

Director

2012–2015

7 episodes

 

Regan Burns, Beth Littleford, Kuma, Stephen Full, Blake Michael, Genevieve Hannelius, and Francesca Capaldi in Dog with a Blog (2012)

Dog with a Blog

5.1

TV Series

Director

2013–2015

3 episodes

 

Rosa Blasi, Chris Tallman, Audrey Whitby, Diego Velazquez, Kira Kosarin, Jack Griffo, and Addison Riecke in The Thundermans (2013)

The Thundermans

6.1

TV Series

Director

2013–2015

4 episodes

 

Mitchel Musso and Larramie Doc Shaw in Pair of Kings (2010)

Pair of Kings

5.9

TV Series

Director

2010–2013

9 episodes

 

Jake Farrow, Daniella Monet, Victoria Justice, Leon Thomas III, Avan Jogia, Elizabeth Gillies, Matt Bennett, and Ariana Grande in Victorious (2010)

Victorious

7.0

TV Series

directed by

2010–2013

6 episodes

 

Big Time Rush (2009)

Big Time Rush

6.6

TV Series

Director

2010–2012

4 episodes

 

Nathan Kress, Jerry Trainor, Miranda Cosgrove, Jennette McCurdy, Drake Kemper, and Noah Munck in iCarly (2007)

iCarly

6.8

TV Series

Director

2007–2012

14 episodes

 

Imagination Movers (2007)

Imagination Movers

7.2

TV Series

Director

2008–2009

6 episodes

 

Jonas Brothers, Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, and Nick Jonas in Jonas (2009)

Jonas

4.8

TV Series

Director

2009

1 episode

 

Rondell Sheridan, Kyle Massey, Jason Dolley, and Maiara Walsh in Cory in the House (2007)

Cory in the House

5.0

TV Series

Director

2007–2008

2 episodes

 

Zoey 101 (2005)

Zoey 101

6.2

TV Series

Director

2007–2008

5 episodes

 

Lil J.J. in Just Jordan (2007)

Just Jordan

6.1

TV Series

Director

2007–2008

3 episodes

 

Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide (2004)

Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide

7.4

TV Series

Director

2004–2007

9 episodes

 

Miley Cyrus in Hannah Montana (2006)

Hannah Montana

5.5

TV Series

Director

2006

5 episodes

 

Craig Anton, Lise Simms, Raviv Ullman, Aly Michalka, and Amy Bruckner in Phil of the Future (2004)

Phil of the Future

6.9

TV Series

Director

2004–2005

6 episodes

 

Zoe Saldaña and Milo Ventimiglia in Dirty Deeds (2005)

Dirty Deeds

5.7

Director

2005

 

Raven-Symoné in That's So Raven (2003)

That's So Raven

6.7

TV Series

Director

2003

1 episode

 

Even Stevens (2000)

Even Stevens

7.6

TV Series

Director

2003

1 episode

 

Jessica Capshaw, Natalia Cigliuti, Vicki Davis, Marina Malota Darling, Markie Post, and Erik von Detten in Odd Man Out (1999)

Odd Man Out

6.6

TV Series

Director

1999

9 episodes

 

Danielle Fishel, Ben Savage, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong in Boy Meets World (1993)

Boy Meets World

8.1

TV Series

Director

1995–1999

13 episodes

 

Tahj Mowry, Essence Atkins, Omar Gooding, John Marshall Jones, and Jason Weaver in Smart Guy (1997)

Smart Guy

7.4

TV Series

Director

1999

1 episode

 

Stacey Dash, Rachel Blanchard, Elisa Donovan, Donald Faison, and Sean Holland in Clueless (1996)

Clueless

5.9

TV Series

Director

1999

1 episode

 

Tamera Mowry-Housley, Tim Reid, Jackée Harry, and Tia Mowry in Sister, Sister (1994)

Sister, Sister

6.3

TV Series

Director

1999

1 episode

 

Michael Galeota, Courtnee Draper, Theo Greenly, and Jermaine Williams in The Jersey (1999)

The Jersey

7.2

TV Series

Director

1999–2004

 

Robert Hays and Shelley Long in Kelly Kelly (1998)

Kelly Kelly

6.5

TV Series

Director

1998

1 episode

 

Luggage of the Gods! (1983)

Luggage of the Gods!

5.6

Director

1983

 

Writer

Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love (2020)

Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love

6.7

TV Series

written byWriter

2020

2 episodes

 

Melissa & Joey (2010)

Melissa & Joey

7.0

TV Series

created bywritten by

2010–2015

104 episodes

 

Danielle Fishel, Ben Savage, Rowan Blanchard, Sabrina Carpenter, August Maturo, and Cooper J. Friedman in Girl Meets World (2014)

Girl Meets World

7.0

TV Series

screenplay

2014

1 episode

 

Lindsey Shaw and Cassandra Scerbo in Teen Spirit (2011)

Teen Spirit

5.4

TV Movie

teleplay

2011

 

JoAnna Garcia Swisher and Raven-Symoné in Revenge of the Bridesmaids (2010)

Revenge of the Bridesmaids

5.9

TV Movie

written by

2010

 

Eric Mabius, Eddie Kaye Thomas, and Autumn Reeser in Nature of the Beast (2007)

Nature of the Beast

5.2

TV Movie

written by

2007

 

Tim Curry, Gary Cole, Caitlin Wachs, Sasha Pieterse, and Jimmy 'Jax' Pinchak in Family Affair (2002)

Family Affair

5.2

TV Series

written by

2002

2 episodes

 

Lyle Lovett, Zooey Deschanel, Eliza Dushku, Eddie Griffin, Jerod Mixon, DJ Qualls, Parry Shen, Sunny Mabrey, and Matt Gogin in The New Guy (2002)

The New Guy

5.8

written by

2002

 

Joanna Kerns, Alan Thicke, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Ashley Johnson, and Jeremy Miller in The Growing Pains Movie (2000)

The Growing Pains Movie

5.0

TV Movie

written by

2000

 

Robert Hays and Shelley Long in Kelly Kelly (1998)

Kelly Kelly

6.5

TV Series

created bystory byteleplay by

1998

7 episodes

 

Danielle Fishel, Ben Savage, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong in Boy Meets World (1993)

Boy Meets World

8.1

TV Series

written by

1994

1 episode

 

Joanna Kerns, Alan Thicke, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Ashley Johnson, and Jeremy Miller in Growing Pains (1985)

Growing Pains

6.6

TV Series

storywritten byteleplay

1985–1991

32 episodes

 

Just the Ten of Us (1987)

Just the Ten of Us

7.0

TV Series

written by

1988

1 episode

 

Luggage of the Gods! (1983)

Luggage of the Gods!

5.6

writer

1983

 

Script and Continuity Department

Just the Ten of Us (1987)

Just the Ten of Us

7.0

TV Series

executive script consultant

1988–1989

24 episodes

 

Joanna Kerns, Alan Thicke, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Ashley Johnson, and Jeremy Miller in Growing Pains (1985)

Growing Pains

6.6

TV Series

executive script consultant

1987–1988

24 episodes

 

Additional Crew

Joanna Kerns, Alan Thicke, Kirk Cameron, Tracey Gold, Ashley Johnson, and Jeremy Miller in Growing Pains (1985)

Growing Pains

6.6

TV Series

story editor

1986–1987

23 episodes

 

Self

Devon Werkheiser, Daniel Curtis Lee, and Lindsey Shaw in Ned's Declassified Podcast Survival Guide (2023)

Ned's Declassified Podcast Survival Guide

8.7

Podcast Series

Self - Guest

2024

1 episode

 

Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle, and Rider Strong in Pod Meets World Podcast (2022)

Pod Meets World Podcast

8.8

Podcast Series

Self - Guest

2023

1 episode

 

Jace Norman in #SetLife on Nick: Henry Danger (2018)

#SetLife on Nick: Henry Danger

9.0

TV Mini Series

Self

2018

1 episode

Audrey Beth Davis obit

Audrey Beth Davis Dies: Retired Entertainment Publicist Was 82

 

She was not on the list.

Audrey Beth Davis, a retired entertainment publicist who worked with The Lippin Group, has died. She was 82.

Davis’ colleagues from Lippin announced that she died of natural causes on Friday in Pennsylvania, surrounded by friends, family and caregivers.

Born Oct. 17, 1943 in Brooklyn, Davis graduated from Midwood High School in 1960 before going on to work for producer Goodson Todman on The Match Game.

Transitioning to public relations, Davis joined Stone Assocates in the 1970s before joining partner Dick Lippin‘s new company Lippin & Grant, which became The Lippin Group. She stayed with the firm until her retirement in 2008.

During her tenure as a television publicist, Davis worked on shows like The Golden Girls, Empty Nest, The Love Boat, Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and more.

Davis is survived by sister Rhonda and husband Jim, sister Sharon, niece Rebecca and husband Konrad, nephew Hank and wife Karen, and great nieces and nephews Jake, Sarah, Zoe and Hannah. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to St. Francis Home.

Jojje Wadenius obit

Popular musician Jojje Wadenius has died

Daughter: “Sudden death”

 He was not on the list.

Musician Georg "Jojje" Wadenius has died.

His daughters confirm this in a statement.

Wadenius turned 80 years old.

Georg "Jojje" Wadenius was active in several different genres, including music for children.

He has both written the music and sung famous children's songs. Wadenius has released the children's albums "Good' good'" and "Kiss, kiss, true, true" with lyrics by Barbro Lindgren .

He is behind the theme song for the children's program "Kalle's Climbing Tree" and the music in "The Uncle Who Doesn't Want to Be Big".

Played in several famous bands

Wadenius has played in the Swedish groups Made in Sweden and Solar Plexus as well as the American jazz rock group Blood, Sweat & Tears .

Wadenius co-founded Made in Sweden in 1968 and began playing in Solar Plexus in 1971.

The following year he moved on to Blood, Sweat & Tears, which he was a part of for four years.

He later helped restart Made in Sweden, then with Tommy Körberg as a permanent member, writes TT.

Collaborated with many stars

His international career as a musician took off after he moved to the United States in the late 70s.

For several years he was part of the house band of one of American television's most iconic shows, "Saturday Night Live," where he played with stars such as Aretha Franklin and James Brown .

During the 80s, he toured with artists such as Luther Vandross , Simon & Garfunkel , and Diana Ross.

Wadenius was a frequently hired studio musician. He has made appearances on Backstreet Boys ' "Show Me the Meaning of Being Lonely" and Kent's "Sverige", among others.

He has also collaborated with Pugh Rogefeldt , Cornelis Vreeswijk and Siw Malmkvist .

Jojje Wadenius was active as a musician until the end. Just six days ago he was on stage with Helen Sjöholm .

Daughters' grief

He leaves behind two daughters, Annika Wadenius Erlich and Jennifer Gilman.

Annika Wadenius Erlich writes about the death on Facebook.

"It is with great sadness that Jennifer Gilman and I share the news of the sudden passing of our father Georg Wadenius. Our family will share more information about memorial services and ways to honor his legacy and memory soon."

Jojje Wadenius was 80 years old.

Alex Zanardi, obit

Alex Zanardi, auto racing champ who won Paralympic golds between life-altering accidents, dies at 59

 

He was not on the list.

ROME (AP) — Alex Zanardi, the Italian auto racing champion-turned-Paralympic gold medalist whose career was marked by two life-altering accidents, has died. He was 59.

Zanardi’s family announced his death on Saturday, saying that he passed away on Friday night.

“Alex died peacefully, surrounded by the affection of those closest to him,” the family said in a statement without providing a cause of death.

In 2020, Zanardi was seriously injured in a handbike accident after crashing into an oncoming truck during a relay event in Tuscany. Zanardi suffered serious facial and cranial trauma in the crash and was put in a medically induced coma.

Nearly 20 years earlier, Zanardi lost both of his legs in an auto racing crash.

“Italy loses a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every challenge of life into a lesson in courage, strength, and dignity,” Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni said on X.

“Alex Zanardi knew how to bounce back every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity, and a strength of spirit that was truly exceptional,” Meloni added. “He gave all of us much more than a victory: he gave hope, pride, and the strength to never give up. ... Thank you for everything, Alex.”

Zanardi won two championships in CART — 1997 and 1998 — in the United States before a brief return to Formula One. He returned to America and was racing in Germany in a CART event in 2001 when both of his legs were severed in a horrific accident the weekend after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. CART raced only because the series was already in Germany at the time of the attacks and could not return to the U.S.

After the 2001 crash, Zanardi was in a coma for three days and his heart stopped at least once.

NASCAR driver Max Papis, who knew Zanardi from childhood in Italy, recalled visiting his friend in the hospital, where Zanardi glanced at Papis’ new shoes.

“He said, ‘Look at the positive side of this. For a long time I will not have to spend money buying those,’” Papis said.

During his recovery, Zanardi designed his own prosthetics — he joked that he made himself taller — and learned to walk again. He then turned his attention to hand cycling and developed into one of the most accomplished athletes in the world. He won four gold medals and two silvers at the 2012 and 2016 Paralympics, competed in the New York City Marathon and set an Ironman record.

When he won a Paralympic race in 2012 at Britain’s Brands Hatch circuit where he had competed as a young driver, Zanardi celebrated the full-circle moment by holding his bike aloft one-handed as he sat on the track.

“Probably a lot of people watching me doing (this) to some degree against all odds maybe they are going to say, ‘Bloody hell, if Zanardi did this, I can try. I can try,’” he told The Associated Press at the time. “A good attempt always brings a result.”

His spirit, will, and determination gave the beloved Italian a larger-than-life persona. When he returned to the U.S. in 2019 to compete for BMW at the Rolex 24 of Daytona without his prosthetics, he was the most revered driver in a field that included F1 champion Fernando Alonso.

Drivers from around the world sought out Zanardi for photographs and were transfixed as he told elaborate tales of his adventures in the nearly two decades since many had seen him.

Zanardi used specially adapted cars with hand controls for gas and brake to take up racing again after the 2001 accident — and well enough to win races in various series.

Stefano Domenicali, the president and CEO of F1, said he was “deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend,” calling Zanardi “truly an inspirational person, as a human and as an athlete.”

“He faced challenges that would have stopped anyone, yet he continued to look forward, always with a smile and a stubborn determination that inspired us all,” Domenicali added. “While his loss is profoundly felt, his legacy remains strong.”

Zanardi’s death came on the same day — May 1 — that fellow driver Ayrton Senna died in a crash during an F1 race in Imola in 1994.

The International Automobile Federation (FIA) said on X that Zanardi’s racing career and “journey from life-changing accident to Paralympics gold medalist made him one of sport’s most admired competitors and an enduring symbol of courage and determination.”

Noted for his infectious smile and fanciful storytelling, Zanardi was praised by Pope Francis after his 2020 crash as an example of strength amid adversity. Francis penned a handwritten letter of encouragement assuring Zanardi and his family of his prayers.

Zanardi’s family added that it “thanks everyone who is sharing their support right now and asks for respect during this time of mourning.”

The funeral will be held Tuesday in Padua.

A moment of silence was observed in Zanardi’s honor before Saturday’s F1 sprint race in Miami Gardens, Florida. Also, the Italian Olympic Committee called for a minute of silence to be observed at all sports events in Italy over the weekend.

Zanardi, who was born in Bologna, is survived by his wife, Daniela, and son, Niccolò.

Alfredrick Hughes obit

Loyola great Alfredrick Hughes, a 1985 All-American, dies at 63

Hughes, a Chicago native who played at Robeson before arriving at Loyola in 1981, was a three-time Midwestern Collegiate Conference Player of the Year.

 

He was not on the list.

Alfredrick Hughes, Loyola’s all-time leading scorer and an Associated Press All-American in 1985, died Friday at 63, the school said.

Hughes, a Chicago native who played at Robeson before arriving at Loyola in 1981, was a three-time Midwestern Collegiate Conference Player of the Year. He scored 2,914 points, ranking 11th in NCAA history. Hughes also holds the program records in field goals made (1,222), field goals attempted (2,656) and free throws attempted (701). He’s tied fourth in career rebounds (982) and ranks 10th in career steals (140).

“Alfredrick and I were more than teammates,” former teammate Carl Golston said in Loyola’s press release. “He was my brother for over 45 years. He was the main reason I transferred to Loyola in 1982. Alfredrick has stamped his name on Loyola basketball forever. We will never forget him, Alfredrick The Great!”

“Today is a sad day for Loyola,” former Ramblers assistant coach Doug Bruno said. “The loss of Alfredrick Hughes touches all former Loyola players, administrators, coaches, and fans. Alfredrick led a Loyola men’s basketball resurgence that rekindled the excellent standard set by the 1963 national champions.”

Hughes helped the Ramblers reach the NCAA Sweet 16 in 1985, when he averaged 26.3 points per game. Under coach Gene Sullivan, Loyola earned the No. 4 seed in the East Region, where the team beat Iona in the first round and Southern Methodist in the second before falling to top-seeded Georgetown 65-53. The Hoyas went on to the championship game, where they were upset by Villanova.

The Spurs drafted Hughes in the first round of the 1985 NBA Draft. He played in 68 games as a rookie, averaging 5.2 points in his only season in the league.

“Not only was Alfredrick an all-time great on one of the best Loyola basketball teams in program history,” Loyola athletic director Steve Watson said, “but he was a great guy who continued to support the Ramblers long after his playing days. I really enjoyed getting to know Alfredrick, and our hearts go out to his family and friends.”

Loyola retired Hughes’ No. 21 and inducted him into the school’s Hall of Fame.

Career information

High school     Paul Robeson (Chicago, Illinois)

College            Loyola Chicago (1981–1985)

NBA draft        1985: 1st round, 14th overall pick

Drafted by       San Antonio Spurs

Playing career 1985–1994

Position           Small forward / shooting guard

Number           6

Career history

1985–1986      San Antonio Spurs

1986–1987      Alno Fabriano

1987–1990      Chicago Illinois Express

1990–1991      Dayton Wings

1991–1992      Louisville Shooters

1992–1993      Fort Wayne Fury

1993    Iraklis Thessaloniki B.C.

1993    Quad City Thunder

1993    Montreal Dragons

1993–1994      Hartford Hellcats

1994    Rochester Renegade

1994    Grand Rapids Hoops

Career highlights

Third-team All-American – AP, UPI (1985)

3× Horizon League Player of the Year (1983–1985)

No. 21 retired by Loyola Ramblers

Seymour Bernstein obit

Seymour Bernstein

Pianist, composer, teacher, and author 

April 24, 1927 – April 30, 2026

He was not on the list.

A pianist, composer, and revered pedagogue who famously traded the prestige of the concert stage for the intimacy of the classroom at the height of his career, Seymour Bernstein died on April 30, 2026, in Damariscotta, Maine. He was 99.

The defining choice of his life arrived in 1977. At the age of 50, Bernstein was a celebrated performer who had made his debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, playing the world premiere of Heitor Villa-Lobos's Piano Concerto No. 2. Yet, at the peak of his public career, he abruptly retired from the concert stage. He chose to retreat to a one-room rent-controlled apartment on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, a space that served as both his home and studio for over 50 years. This decision was not a surrender but a profound pivot toward teaching and composing, driven by his belief that the social world is unpredictable, whereas art provides a predictable foundation to direct into everyday life.

His path to that quiet Manhattan studio began in Newark, New Jersey, where he discovered the piano at his aunt's house. By age 15, he was already supervising the practice of younger pupils under the guidance of his teacher Clara Husserl. Two years later, he won the Griffith Artist Award, gaining local fame as a performer before graduating from Weequahic High School in 1945. His understanding of music's deeper purpose crystallized during the Korean War. Serving in the U.S. Army, he gave concerts on the front lines and for top military leaders. This experience cemented his conviction that music was a vital force for connection, capable of dispelling loneliness and discontent.

Following the war, Bernstein studied with a staggering roster of legendary musicians, including Alexander Brailowsky, Sir Clifford Curzon, George Enescu, and Nadia Boulanger, as noted by Wise Music Classical. Despite this exposure to the grandeur of the classical elite, he remained grounded in his belief that true artistry required profound personal authenticity. He often stated that his primary ambition in teaching was to amalgamate the musician with the person so that they were one and the same. If a student felt inadequate as a musician, he warned, they would inevitably feel inadequate as a person.

This philosophy defined his long tenure as an Adjunct Associate Professor of Music and Music Education at New York University and permeated his influential book, "With Your Own Two Hands: Self-Discovery Through Music," which has been translated into multiple languages. His quiet dedication eventually caught the attention of actor Ethan Hawke, who directed the critically acclaimed documentary "Seymour: An Introduction," according to The New York Times. The film brought Bernstein a late-life resolution, introducing his gentle wisdom to a global audience and earning him an honorary doctorate from Shenandoah University. As he reflected on his journey, he observed that music, like life, is about dissonances, harmonies, and resolution, noting that one cannot truly enjoy the resolution without first experiencing the dissonance.

Seymour Bernstein leaves behind a legacy that transcends the notes on a page. He will be remembered not merely as a prodigy who conquered the concert hall, but as a master teacher who recognized that the ultimate masterpiece a musician can craft is their own character. By stepping out of the spotlight, he illuminated the lives of countless students, proving that the most profound artistic triumphs often happen in the quietest rooms.

Gwen Farrell obit

'M*A*S*H'Actress Gwen Farrell Adair Dead at 94

She was not on the list. 

Key points

Gwen Farrell Adair, an actress known for multiple roles on M*A*S*H who later became a boxing referee, has died at 94.

Adair portrayed several different nurses across the show's 11-season run.

She also appeared in movies like The Towering Inferno and Coffy.

Gwen Farrell Adair, the actress best known for her performances on M*A*S*H, has died. She was 94.

The actress' son, Keith Farrell, confirmed his mother's death in a GoFundMe page established to help cover funeral costs.

"Beyond her accomplishments, Gwen was so much more to her family," her loved ones wrote in the GoFundMe description. "She was a grandmother, a guiding light, and a steady source of love and wisdom. She had a way of making those around her feel supported, understood, and cared for without needing recognition."

Her family continued, "Her passing leaves a deep void in our hearts, one that cannot be filled. We will miss her voice, her strength, and the quiet comfort she brought into our lives. While we are heartbroken, we are also incredibly grateful for the life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind."

Deadline reported that the actress died of natural causes in Sherman Oaks, Calif., on Thursday.

Born in Austin in 1972, Adair made her screen debut in the second episode of M*A*S*H in 1972, playing an uncredited nurse. She went on to appear in over a dozen episodes in the medical dramedy's first season, and was later credited as Nurse Butler, Nurse Wilson, Lt. Baker, Nurse Able, Nurse Gwen, and an anesthetist across seven more of the show's 11 seasons.

Adair also made her film debut in 1972 in the blaxploitation movie Black Gunn. She went on to appear in small roles in films like The Towering Inferno, Coffy, Soylent Green, Earthquake, and Billy Jack Goes to Washington. She also acted in a 1975 episode of Starsky & Hutch.

Adair switched up her career in 1980 when she entered the boxing world as a referee. "With confidence, fairness, and unwavering composure, she earned the respect of fighters, trainers, and fans alike," her family wrote in the GoFundMe description. "She didn't just do the job; she broke barriers and proved that strength comes in many forms."

The actress' family asked for financial support in the wake of her death. "As we navigate this difficult time, we are asking for support to help cover funeral and memorial expenses, as well as any related costs that come with laying a loved one to rest with the honor and dignity she deserves," they wrote. "Any contribution, no matter the size, means so much to our family. If you are unable to donate, we truly appreciate you sharing this page and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers."

The family added, "We are deeply grateful for the love and support during this time of grief."

 

Actress

Alan Alda, David Ogden Stiers, Gary Burghoff, William Christopher, Jamie Farr, Mike Farrell, Harry Morgan, and Loretta Swit in M*A*S*H (1972)

M*A*S*H

8.5

TV Series

NurseNurse WilsonNurse Gwen ...

1972–1983

26 episodes

 

Billy Jack Goes to Washington (1977)

Billy Jack Goes to Washington

4.5

Reporter

1977

 

Starsky and Hutch (1975)

Starsky and Hutch

7.0

TV Series

Diane Sills (uncredited)

1975

1 episode

 

Fred Astaire, William Holden, Paul Newman, Richard Chamberlain, Steve McQueen, Faye Dunaway, O.J. Simpson, Robert Vaughn, Robert Wagner, Susan Blakely, and Jennifer Jones in The Towering Inferno (1974)

The Towering Inferno

7.0

Party Guest (uncredited)

1974

 

Charlton Heston, Victoria Principal, Geneviève Bujold, Ava Gardner, Lorne Greene, George Kennedy, Marjoe Gortner, Lloyd Nolan, Richard Roundtree, and Barry Sullivan in Earthquake (1974)

Earthquake

5.9

Woman in Street (uncredited)

1974

 

Pam Grier in Coffy (1973)

Coffy

6.8

Waitress in Club (uncredited)

1973

 

Charlton Heston, Edward G. Robinson, Joseph Cotten, Chuck Connors, Richard Fleischer, Paula Kelly, Brock Peters, Walter Seltzer, Leigh Taylor-Young, and Russell Thacher in Soylent Green (1973)

Soylent Green

7.0

Woman in Confessional Line (uncredited)

1973

 

Black Gunn (1972)

Black Gunn

5.8

Woman at B.A.G. Headquarters (uncredited)

1972

 

Self

ESPN Top Rank Boxing (1980)

ESPN Top Rank Boxing

7.4

TV Series

Self - Referee (as Gwen Adair)

1993

1 episode