Host · Actor · Announcer

Ed Herlihy

1909–1999 · Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.

In the golden age of radio and early television, few voices were as ubiquitous and comforting as that of Ed Herlihy. A versatile announcer, narrator, and performer, Herlihy became a quintessential audio presence that guided Americans through some of the most significant moments of the 20th century.

Early Life and Radio Beginnings

Born Edward Joseph Herlihy on August 14, 1909, in Boston, Massachusetts, he emerged from a city with a rich broadcasting tradition. After graduating in 1932, Herlihy secured his first radio job at WLOE in Boston, his hometown station. His breakthrough came in 1935 when NBC hired him, prompting a move to New York City. Sharing an apartment with fellow Boston announcer Frank Gallop, Herlihy quickly established himself in network radio. His early network radio career was marked by remarkable versatility. Throughout the 1930s and 1950s, he became the announcer for numerous popular radio shows, demonstrating an exceptional ability to adapt to different program formats and styles.

The Golden Age of Radio and Television

Herlihy's career perfectly straddled the transition from radio to television. He was a prominent figure during television's "Golden Age," appearing on hit shows like Your Show of Shows and soap operas All My Children and As the World Turns. His smooth, warm voice made him an ideal narrator and announcer. Perhaps his most enduring professional relationship was with Kraft Foods. Beginning in 1947, Herlihy became the company's spokesman, a role he would maintain for nearly four decades. His avuncular, neighborly tone made him the quintessential "cheese man on TV," introducing recipes and delivering commercials with a distinctive charm.

Newsreel Narration and Historical Documentation

Beyond entertainment, Herlihy played a crucial role in documenting historical events through newsreel narration. In the 1940s, he narrated Universal Newsreels covering pivotal moments like the Japanese attack, World War II battles, and the first atomic bomb detonations. During the Cold War, he also narrated the first American newsreel about the Sputnik launch.

Diverse Media Career

Herlihy's talents extended beyond broadcasting. He appeared in several films, including works by Woody Allen like Zelig and The King of Comedy. He also performed in stage productions and even appeared in Watergate: The Musical in 1982.

Legacy and Personal Life

Ed Herlihy passed away on January 30, 1999, at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in American media. His voice had become synonymous with mid-century broadcasting, bridging entertainment, news, and commercial communication. The Herlihy family continues to support cultural institutions, with a foyer at a local museum bearing his name and featuring his portrait.