Announcer · Actor

Art Gilmore

1912–2010 · Tacoma, Washington, USA

In the golden age of radio and early television, few voices were as ubiquitous and recognizable as Art Gilmore. A master announcer, narrator, and broadcaster, Gilmore's distinctive vocal talents graced countless radio programs, movie trailers, television shows, and documentaries throughout a remarkable seven-decade career.

Early Life and Radio Beginnings

Arthur Wells Gilmore was born on March 18, 1912, with a destiny deeply intertwined with the world of broadcasting. After attending college, where he was active in music fraternities, Gilmore's professional journey began in 1935 when he was hired as an announcer for Seattle's radio station. His early career quickly gained momentum as he became a staff announcer for national networks, developing the smooth, authoritative vocal style that would become his trademark. Drawing inspiration from the sports commentators of the 1930s, Gilmore's announcing voice soon became a staple of numerous radio programs. He introduced popular shows and became known for his ability to capture listeners' attention with his clear, resonant delivery. His talent for introducing programs and providing narrative context made him an essential figure in the emerging world of broadcast entertainment.

Expanding into Multiple Media

As radio evolved into television, Gilmore seamlessly transitioned between mediums. He heralded the beginnings of numerous television programs and became a prolific narrator. His work included narrating 156 episodes of one series, 39 segments of another, and all 36 episodes of a different show. His television appearances spanned a wide range of programs, demonstrating his versatility as a broadcaster. Gilmore's talents extended far beyond live broadcasting. In films, he was often the voice behind significant moments, narrating documentaries and providing voice-overs for movie trailers. Notably, he voiced President Franklin D. Roosevelt in several wartime films and became a familiar voice in Hollywood productions throughout the 1940s and 1950s.

Professional Achievements and Collaborations

Beyond his broadcasting work, Gilmore was a significant figure in media professional organizations. In 1966, he co-founded the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters alongside other notable Hollywood radio stars. At the time of his death, he was Chairman Emeritus of the organization, which now presents the Art Gilmore Career Achievement Award to recognize contributions to broadcasting. His professional achievements were not limited to performance. Gilmore co-authored the book Television and Radio Announcing, sharing his expertise with future generations of broadcasters. He was also actively involved in professional organizations, serving as president of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) from 1961 to 1963.

Legacy and Personal Life

Art Gilmore's career was characterized by an extraordinary commitment to his craft. He was not just a voice, but a storyteller who helped shape the narrative landscape of mid-20th century American media. His work spanned radio, television, film, and even recordings for children and those with reading difficulties. Personally, Gilmore was married to Grace Gilmore since 1938 and was survived by his wife, two daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His nephew noted that Art was the reason he chose a career in broadcasting, highlighting the inspirational impact of his professional life.

Works and Appearances

Radio

Multiple unnamed radio programs (1935-1950s)
Introduced various popular radio shows

Television

Narrated 156 episodes of an unnamed series
39 segments of another series
36 episodes of a specific show
Appearances on various television programs

Cinema

Voice of President Franklin D. Roosevelt in multiple films (1942-1943)
Narrator for numerous film trailers (1940s-1960s)
Voice work in documentaries
Final film role in Moonbeams (2001)

Books

Television and Radio Announcing (co-authored)

Art Gilmore passed away on September 25, 2010, at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most recognizable voices in American broadcasting history.