Carl Kasell

Date of Birth: April 2, 1934

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: April 17, 2018

Biography

Carl Kasell was an esteemed American radio personality and news broadcaster who left an indelible mark on public radio. Born on April 2, 1934, in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Kasell developed a passion for radio broadcasting at an early age. He began his career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he helped launch the student-run radio station WUNC. Kasell joined National Public Radio (NPR) in 1975 as a part-time newscaster for “Weekend All Things Considered” and quickly became a staple in the NPR community. In 1979, he became the news announcer for “Morning Edition,” a role he held until his retirement in 2009. His voice became synonymous with trust and credibility, making him a beloved figure among listeners. In addition to his work on “Morning Edition,” Kasell became widely known for his role as the official judge and scorekeeper on NPR’s weekly news quiz show “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” His humor and charm endeared him to a new generation of public radio fans. Carl Kasell passed away on April 17, 2018, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. His legacy continues to influence the world of radio broadcasting, and he is remembered as a pioneer and a cherished voice in American journalism.

5 Interesting Facts about Carl Kasell

1. Carl Kasell began practicing his radio voice by reading newspapers aloud as a child.

2. He was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2010.

3. Kasell had a cameo appearance in an episode of the animated TV show “The Simpsons.”

4. Even after retiring, Kasell continued to record custom voicemail greetings as prizes for “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” listeners.

5. He was a mentor to many young broadcasters and journalists throughout his career.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Carl Kasell

1. “I can’t think of a better job than being on the radio. You get to meet the best people, you get to travel, and you get to tell people about the world.”

2. “Radio is a very personal medium. It speaks to you directly.”

3. “It’s been a great ride, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

4. “I used to listen to the radio and pretend I was on the air.”

5. “Public radio listeners expect more. They expect depth, context, and honesty.”