Casey Kasem, American disc jockey, music historian, radio celebrity, and voice actor; co-created American Top 40 (d. 2014)

Kemal Amin "Casey" Kasem, born on April 27, 1932, and passing on June 15, 2014, was a true titan of American broadcasting and voice acting. His distinctive voice and affable personality became synonymous with the soundtrack of generations, particularly through his pioneering work as a disc jockey and radio personality. Kasem was far more than just a voice on the radio; he was an institution, celebrated for creating and hosting several iconic radio countdown programs, most famously American Top 40. His cultural footprint also extended deeply into the world of animation, where he originated the beloved voice of Norville "Shaggy" Rogers in the enduring Scooby-Doo franchise and lent his talents to bringing Dick Grayson, also known as Robin, to life in the classic Super Friends series.

The Voice of American Radio: American Top 40

For millions across the globe, Casey Kasem’s voice was the comforting, authoritative guide through the ever-changing landscape of popular music. His magnum opus, American Top 40 (AT40), debuted on the weekend of July 4, 1970, marking a pivotal moment in radio history. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, renowned for its meticulously researched chart data, Kasem's engaging delivery, and his famous "long-distance dedications," which added a deeply personal touch to the music countdown. Listeners eagerly tuned in weekly to hear him count down the 40 biggest songs in the United States, interspersed with fascinating tidbits about the artists and their music, often concluding with his signature sign-off: "Keep your feet on the ground, and keep reaching for the stars."

Kasem hosted the original AT40 continuously until 1988, establishing it as an indispensable part of weekend listening. Following a contractual dispute, he departed from AT40, but his connection to the countdown format remained strong. He then launched another successful program, Casey's Top 40, which ran from January 1989 to February 1998, continuing to deliver the chart-topping hits to his loyal audience. In a triumphant return that delighted fans, Kasem revived his role as the host of American Top 40 in 1998, demonstrating the enduring power of his connection with the program and its listeners.

His influence wasn't limited to pop music; Kasem also expanded the countdown concept. Spin-offs of the original countdown were developed to cater to specific genres, including country music and adult contemporary audiences. He personally hosted two popular countdowns tailored for the adult contemporary format, beginning in 1992 and continuing their run until 2009, further solidifying his pervasive presence across various radio formats.

Beyond the Airwaves: A Prolific Voice Actor

While his radio presence was legendary, Casey Kasem's voice also left an indelible mark on animation, making him a household name for a different generation. He holds the distinction of being the very first actor to voice the perpetually hungry and often fearful Norville "Shaggy" Rogers in the iconic Scooby-Doo franchise. Starting in 1969, Kasem’s portrayal of Shaggy defined the character's unique blend of humor, cowardice, and loyalty for decades, a role he reprised from 1969 to 1997 and again from 2002 to 2009. His distinctive vocal inflections and comedic timing were crucial to Shaggy's enduring popularity.

Furthermore, Kasem gave voice to another beloved animated character, Dick Grayson, known to fans as Robin, the Boy Wonder, in the classic Saturday morning cartoon series Super Friends. He brought this iconic DC Comics hero to life from 1973 to 1985, demonstrating his versatility by transitioning from Shaggy's laid-back demeanor to Robin's more earnest and heroic persona. His contributions to these animated classics ensured his voice resonated with millions of children and adults alike, cementing his legacy in voice acting history.

A Diverse Career in Media

Kasem's talents extended well beyond radio hosting and character voiceovers. He was a highly sought-after voice artist for countless commercial advertisements, lending his smooth, trustworthy voice to various brands and products. His voice also graced other beloved children's television programs, including segments on the iconic educational series Sesame Street and memorable roles in the popular Transformers cartoon series, showcasing his broad appeal and versatility across different media platforms. For a period, he was famously known as "the voice of NBC," providing network promotional announcements that were instantly recognizable to viewers.

In 1983, Kasem further expanded his entrepreneurial and hosting ventures by founding the American Video Awards. He continued to co-produce and host this annual event, which celebrated achievements in music videos, until its final show in 1987. His philanthropic efforts were also notable, as he regularly lent his voice and support to the annual Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon, helping to raise awareness and funds for muscular dystrophy research.

A Lasting Legacy

Casey Kasem's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of American entertainment. From revolutionizing radio with American Top 40 to defining the voices of beloved animated characters, his influence is undeniable. He mastered the art of connecting with audiences, whether through sharing music, offering heartfelt dedications, or bringing animated personalities to life. His contributions ensured that his voice, his warmth, and his catchphrases would be remembered for generations, making him one of the most beloved and influential figures in broadcasting and voice acting history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Casey Kasem

When was Casey Kasem born and when did he pass away?
Casey Kasem was born on April 27, 1932, and he passed away on June 15, 2014.
What was Casey Kasem best known for?
He was best known for creating and hosting the iconic radio countdown program American Top 40, and for being the original voice of Norville "Shaggy" Rogers in the Scooby-Doo franchise and Robin in Super Friends.
How long did Casey Kasem host American Top 40?
He hosted the original American Top 40 from its inception in July 1970 until 1988, and then returned to host it again from 1998 until his retirement from the show.
Did Casey Kasem voice any other famous characters besides Shaggy and Robin?
While Shaggy and Robin are his most famous, he also provided voices for various characters in shows like Sesame Street and the Transformers cartoon series, and numerous commercial voiceovers.
What was Casey Kasem's famous sign-off?
His iconic sign-off on American Top 40 was: "Keep your feet on the ground, and keep reaching for the stars."