Iconic WABC radio host Bernard McGuirk died Wednesday morning following a battle with cancer, Red Apple Media, Inc. announced. He was 64.
The “Bernie & Sid in the Morning” host moved to 77 WABC in 2007 with Don Imus as a longtime executive producer and personality for the “Imus in the Morning” show.
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Red Apple Media president Chad Lopez announced McGuirk’s passing on the airwaves Thursday morning.
“It is with profound sadness that I must share this news with you. Bernard McGuirk, husband, father and our friend passed away yesterday, Oct. 5, in the company of his family. Bernie courageously battled cancer for all to see and hear, in a manner that was inspiring to all of us,” Lopez said.
On behalf of John and Margo Catsimatidis and the entire #WABC family, it is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beloved colleague and friend, Bernie McGuirk.
— TalkRadio 77 WABC (@77WABCradio) October 6, 2022
We will all miss Bernie more than words can express. pic.twitter.com/uOS84PNWnA
“Bernie loved radio and shared his life with the listeners of New York City since 1986 when he joined the many voices on New York City’s airwaves. He entertained millions across the country working with ‘Imus in the Morning,’ making you laugh one moment and making you think the next,” Lopez continued. “In 2007, Bernie came with Imus to broadcast here at WABC. His personality from day one dramatically improved the camaraderie and morale of the entire radio station; his comedy – impressive, his professionalism – immeasurable and his character – without peer.”
Lopez noted that McGuirk’s morning show with co-host Sid Rosenberg became the No. 1 news talk morning show in New York City this year.
“He will be missed by all that knew him and listened to him, a true gentleman, he is the fabric of the morning show. He is the morning show and was the backbone of this entire radio station,” Lopez said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the McGuirk family.”
National radio host Todd Starnes reacted to the tragic news on the “Todd Starnes Show” Thursday.
“We got some difficult news this morning. A good friend of mine from the old Fox News days, Bernie McGuirk, had a great show on WABC, ‘Sid and Bernie,’ and he passed away, just, really before his time, dealing with cancer,” Starnes said.
“Bernie was a consummate professional and a terrific broadcaster, and we certainly want to remember Bernie’s family and also his radio family,” Starnes added. “Bernie, we’re going to miss you. Just say a prayer for the people over at WABC and, of course, Bernie’s beloved family.”
Sid Rosenberg’s Tribute to Bernard McGuirk at the 77WABC 100 Years Gala #77WABCRadio #BernardMcGuirk pic.twitter.com/3OJf6t49aC
— TalkRadio 77 WABC (@77WABCradio) October 6, 2022
WABC will air a tribute to McGuirk on Tuesday, Oct. 11. He is survived by his wife, Carol, and children Melanie and Brendan.