Don Imus

Date of Birth: July 23, 1940

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: December 27, 2019

Biography

John Donald Imus Jr., known professionally as Don Imus, was an American radio personality, television show host, and author. Born on July 23, 1940, in Riverside, California, Imus began his broadcasting career in 1968 at KUTY, a small station in Palmdale, California. His sharp wit and controversial humor quickly garnered a significant following, leading him to larger markets such as Cleveland and eventually New York City. Imus became a household name as the host of “Imus in the Morning,” a radio show that mixed political commentary, satire, and interviews with prominent figures. The show aired on various stations, including WNBC and WFAN, and was syndicated nationwide on the Westwood One network. Throughout his career, Imus was both celebrated and criticized for his unfiltered style. He faced significant controversies, including a high-profile incident in 2007 involving racist and sexist comments about the Rutgers University women’s basketball team, which led to his suspension and eventual firing by CBS Radio. Despite these setbacks, Imus returned to the airwaves and continued to command a loyal audience until his retirement in 2018. Imus was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Imus Ranch, a working cattle ranch in New Mexico that served as a retreat for children with cancer and other serious illnesses. He authored several books, including “God’s Other Son” and “Two Guys Four Corners,” which showcase his unique brand of humor and storytelling. Don Imus passed away on December 27, 2019, due to complications from lung disease.

5 Interesting Facts about Don Imus

1. Don Imus won four Marconi Awards during his career, which are considered some of the most prestigious awards in radio broadcasting.

2. Imus was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 1989.

3. He served in the United States Marine Corps before getting into radio.

4. Imus authored several books, including a memoir titled “God’s Other Son,” which humorously chronicles his life and career.

5. The Imus Ranch, which he founded with his wife, Deirdre, hosted more than 2,000 children with cancer and other serious illnesses from 1999 to 2014.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Don Imus

1. “I’m not happy unless I have a microphone in my hand.”

2. “I have no interest in going back to the old Imus.”

3. “Just because people in power, or people who have influence, tell you something is right, it doesn’t make it right.”

4. “We haven’t seen an American hero go out this sadly since General Custer.”

5. “There’s a difference between being crude and being funny.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Don Imus’s net worth was estimated to be around $45 million.

Children

Don Imus had four children. He had two daughters, Nadine and Toni, from his first marriage to Harriet Showalter. He also had two sons, Wyatt and Zachary, with his second wife, Deirdre Coleman Imus. Wyatt was notably involved in the operations of the Imus Ranch.