The Voice of NPR: Carl Kasell's Enduring Legacy

A Familiar Face and Voice in American Radio

Carl Kasell, a stalwart of National Public Radio (NPR), is best known for his distinctive voice and stalwart presence as the official judge and scorekeeper of the popular weekly news quiz show Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!, as well as his long tenure as a newscaster for NPR's Morning Edition. Throughout his career, Kasell has been synonymous with trusted, quality journalism, bringing news to the American public with his warm, resonant voice.

Early Life and Career

Born on April 2, 1934, in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Kasell's affinity for radio began at a young age. As a student of drama in high school, he was mentored by none other than Andy Griffith, who encouraged Kasell to pursue a career in theatre. However, Kasell's passion lay in radio, and he began practicing his newscaster voice as a child, even going so far as to hide behind a radio to fool passersby into thinking they were listening to the radio when in fact they were hearing the young Kasell.

Kasell's radio career took off at the tender age of 16, when he landed his first on-air job. He went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he helped launch local radio station WUNC with fellow student and future broadcaster Charles Kuralt. Kasell's degree in English was put on hold when he was drafted into the U.S. Army, but upon his return, he resumed his radio career, working as an announcer and DJ at WGBR in Goldsboro, North Carolina, before moving to Northern Virginia in 1965.

A Career Marked by Excellence

Kasell's move to Northern Virginia marked the beginning of a distinguished career in radio. He worked as an announcer and DJ at WPIK in Alexandria, Virginia, before joining the staff of all-news WAVA in Arlington, Virginia, where he eventually rose to the position of news director. It was during this time that Kasell hired a young Katie Couric, then a student at the University of Virginia, as an intern, thus starting her career in news broadcasting.

In 1975, Kasell joined NPR's staff as a news announcer for Weekend All Things Considered. Four years later, he became the news announcer for Morning Edition, a position he held until 2009. Kasell's voice became synonymous with NPR, and his dedication to quality journalism earned him the respect of his peers and the public alike.

Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! and Beyond

In 1998, Kasell took on the role of official judge and scorekeeper of Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!, a position he held until his retirement in 2014. With his dry wit and sharp tongue, Kasell brought a unique blend of humor and gravitas to the show, making him a beloved fixture in American radio.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Kasell has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to radio journalism. He was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2010 and received the Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Broadcasting in 2006.

A Lasting Legacy

Carl Kasell's legacy extends far beyond his impressive résumé. He has inspired generations of journalists and radio personalities, and his commitment to quality journalism has set a high standard for the industry. As a testament to his enduring impact, Kasell's voice remains etched in the minds of Americans, a reminder of the power of radio to inform, educate, and entertain.