Casey Kasem: Radio Legend Dies At 82

So sad. Casey Kasem, a legendary radio DJ who hosted beloved shows like ‘American Top 40,’ passed away on June 15. He was 82 years old.

From being the voice of Shaggy in Scooby-Doo to founding and hosting famous radio show American Top 40, Casey Kasem‘s voice was beloved by millions of fans. After a long battle with Parkinson’s disease, Casey passed away at the age of 82.

Casey Kasem: American DJ Dies At 82

So sad. Casey passed away on June 15 at the age of 82, his daughter Kerri Kasem confirmed.
Kerri posted a heartfelt message on her Facebook page about her father’s death.
Early this Father’s Day morning, our dad Casey Kasem passed away surrounded by family and friends. Even though we know he is in a better place and no longer suffering, we are heartbroken. Thank you for all your love, support and prayers. The world will miss Casey Kasem, an incredible talent and humanitarian; we will miss our Dad.
With love, Kerri, Mike and Julie.
Casey was born Kemal Amin Kasem on April 27, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan. He made his first radio appearance in high school and studied radio broadcasting at Wayne State University. In 1962, Casey was drafted into the US Army and sent to Korea. While serving in Korea, Casey became an announcer and DJ for the Armed Forces Radio Korea Network.
In 1963, Casey moved to Los Angeles and began working at KRLA and pursuing his acting career. Casey’s big break came when Dick Clark offered him a job hosting a TV musical show called Shebang! Casey appeared in various movie and TV roles and ultimately launched American Top 40 in 1970. It became one of the most popular syndicated radio shows ever around the world.

Casey Kasem’s Legacy: The Radio Legend’s Life

Casey was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1992 and then the National Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame in 1995. He became famous for his weekly sign off on American Top 40. The DJ would end every show with:  “Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars.” During his final years, Casey’s wife of 34 years, Jean Kasem, and his children battled over where and how his health would be treated. Ultimately, Casey’s daughter Kerri was awarded conservatorship. On June 11, a judge ruled that Kerri could end life support for her father. Our thoughts are with Casey’s family and friends during this very difficult time. Casey will be deeply missed.