printGeorge Putnam, the “greatest voice in radio,” has died at the age of 94. Mr. Putnam’s was the greatest voice not only because of its sonorous quality, but because of how incisive, smart and principled the man behind the voice was.
“Former President Nixon, speaking on videotape during a 1984 roast of Putnam given by KTTV to celebrate his 50th anniversary in broadcasting, said of the outspoken newscaster: ‘Some people didn’t like what he said; some people liked what he said. But everybody listened to George Putnam. That is why he has been one of the most influential commentators of our times.'”
Read about Mr. Putnam’s inspiring life, and life’s work, here.
I was immensely privileged to have been a guest on Talk Back, George Putnam’s nationally syndicated show, on October 9 of 2007. I came away feeling I had been graced by a great American.
At the time I wrote the following: “Mr. Putnam is a national treasure, who should be on TV to remind Americans how incisive, sonorous and super smart some of their media mavens used to be. (Now none of them are.) I was also touched by Mr. Putnam’s graciousness about me and my work. This is a man whose counsel Nixon and Reagan sought, and who ‘has a star on the Hollywood Boulevard ‘Walk of Fame.’ Again, an honor.”
Our good friend Chuck Wilder has been doing a splendid job of hosting the syndicated show on CRN Digital Talk Radio. Chuck continues the tradition of reasoned, civil, politically incorrect debate. I wish wonderful Mr. Wilder continued success.
It is sad to hear about the passing of this great American and wonderful journalist, although I am glad he lived to a ripe old age. Will we see his like again? Somehow I doubt it.