Gary Edward Keillor, better known as Garrison Keillor, was born on August 7, 1942, in Anoka, a charming suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota, to Grace Ruth (Dunham) and John Philip Keillor, a skilled carpenter and postal worker. As a member of a family with six siblings, Keillor's childhood was filled with warmth and camaraderie.
His father, John Philip Keillor, was a proud descendant of English, Welsh, and German ancestry, with his paternal grandfather hailing from Canada. Meanwhile, Keillor's maternal grandparents were Scottish immigrants who brought their rich cultural heritage to the family.
Keillor's academic pursuits took him to the University of Minnesota, where he earned a bachelor's degree in English in 1966. It was during his time at the university that he began his illustrious broadcasting career on the student-operated radio station, Radio K. This early start laid the foundation for his future success in the world of radio and writing.
In 1969, Keillor started writing for The New Yorker, a prestigious publication that has been a staple of American literature for over a century. His work for the magazine was a testament to his talent and dedication as a writer.
On July 6, 1974, Keillor launched "A Prairie Home Companion," a radio show that would become a beloved institution in American broadcasting. Initially, the show was broadcast in a St. Paul college theatre, with an audience of just twelve people. However, its popularity soon grew, and the show was eventually relocated to New York in 1987.
In 1989, Keillor started "The American Radio Company," which, after four seasons, returned to its original name, "A Prairie Home Companion," in 1993. The show's relaunch marked a new era for Keillor, as he continued to entertain and engage audiences with his unique blend of storytelling, music, and humor.
From 1996 to 2001, Keillor authored an advice column, "Mr. Blue," on Salon.com, a popular online publication. However, he resigned from the column after undergoing heart surgery in 2001.
Since June 2005, Keillor has been a syndicated newspaper columnist at Salon.com, sharing his insights and opinions with readers across the country.
Throughout his illustrious career, Keillor has demonstrated his versatility as a writer, performer, and radio host. He has published over 100 written or recorded works, including eleven books, three of which are designed for children.
Keillor's personal life is just as fascinating as his professional accomplishments. He is married to Jenny Lind Nilsson, a talented violinist with the Minnesota Opera Orchestra, and the couple has a daughter together. They reside in St. Paul, Minnesota, with Keillor also owning a Manhattan apartment.
In addition to his many accomplishments, Keillor is also a dedicated family man, and his love for his wife and daughter is evident in his work and personal life.
