At the age of 81, Howard Hesseman, who was famous for his role as disc-jockey, Dr. Johnny Fever on “WKRP in Cincinnati,” died on Saturday. Manager Robbie Kass announced on Sunday that Hesseman died due to complications following colon surgery in Los Angeles.
In the 60s, the actor was a DJ on the radio. However, at a time when few hippie-type characters made it onto network television, Hesseman earned two Emmy nominations for his role as Dr. Johnny Fever on “WKRP in Cincinnati” between 1978 and 1982.
In 1979, the actor told the New York Times that he believed Dr. Johnny Fever smoked marijuana, drank wine and maybe some hard liquor. At the time, Hesseman was preparing to host “Saturday Night Live.” He hosted the show three times during his career.
He was born in Lebanon, Oregon on February 27, 1940.
Written by Jeanette Vietti
Sources:
News 10: Howard Hesseman, star of ‘WKRP in Cincinnati,’ dies at 81
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