Bill Kennedy, a renowned radio and television announcer, was distinguished by his remarkable, deep, and sonorous voice, capable of captivating audiences and conveying a sense of authority and gravitas. Born on June 27, 1908, in the charming suburb of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, Kennedy's fascination with radio speaking began at a very young age, and he dedicated himself to honing and perfecting his vocal abilities through persistent practice and diligent effort, ultimately developing a voice that was both smooth and powerful.
Kennedy embarked upon his illustrious career in the realm of radio broadcasting in the year 1934, commencing as a member of the esteemed staff of WTAM in the vibrant city of Cleveland, Ohio. Subsequently, he made the transition to WWJ in the thriving metropolis of Detroit, Michigan, where he honed his skills as a staff announcer.
As his career continued to flourish, Kennedy relocated to the sun-kissed city of Los Angeles, California, where he took up a position as a staff announcer for the renowned radio station KHJ. It was during his tenure at KHJ that Kennedy's exceptional talent and charisma caught the attention of the illustrious film producer and studio executive, Hal B. Wallis, who was so impressed with Kennedy's abilities that he offered him a seven-year contract with the iconic Warner Bros. film studio.
Kennedy's cinematic journey commenced in the 1940s, marked by appearances in a variety of films that showcased his burgeoning talent, including the critically acclaimed "Now, Voyager" (1942),a psychological drama that left an indelible mark on the industry, and "Air Force" (1943),a war drama that highlighted his versatility as a thespian.
From the mid-1950s, Kennedy's career took off as a seasoned television announcer, lending his distinctive voice to the iconic opening credits of the beloved series "Adventures of Superman," which premiered in 1952 and captured the hearts of audiences nationwide. Furthermore, he made numerous appearances on various television shows, effortlessly transitioning between scripted and unscripted roles, and even graced the small screen with his presence in numerous commercials, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Notably, Kennedy's television program, "Bill Kennedy's Showtime," enjoyed a remarkable run from 1956 to 1983, cementing his status as a beloved and respected figure in the world of television, as he effortlessly charmed audiences with his affable personality and captivating on-screen presence.
Kennedy, a man of notable marital history, having been wed on two separate occasions, went on to father a total of three offspring, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the form of his progeny.
As he navigated the latter stages of his life, Kennedy found solace in the sun-kissed locale of Palm Beach, Florida, where he would eventually meet his untimely demise at the ripe old age of 88, succumbing to the ravages of emphysema.
