Don Pardo
Dominick George “Don” Pardo was born on February 22, 1918, in Westfield, Massachusetts. From an early age, Pardo displayed a passion for performing and entertaining, a characteristic that would later define his illustrious career in broadcasting. He attended Boston’s Emerson College, where he honed his skills in public speaking and drama. His voice, which would become his signature, was already a deep, resonant baritone even as a young man. Pardo’s early exposure to the world of radio during his college years sparked his interest in pursuing a career in broadcasting.
The NBC Years: A Career Spanning Decades
Pardo’s professional career began in radio in the 1940s, and he quickly made a name for himself as a reliable and versatile announcer. In 1944, he joined NBC, a network he would remain with for more than seven decades. His early work included radio dramas, commercials, and various on-air roles. However, it was television that would truly make Don Pardo a household name.
In the 1950s, as television became the dominant medium, Pardo transitioned from radio to the small screen. He became the announcer for a number of NBC programs, including the game shows “The Price Is Right” and “Jeopardy!” His booming voice, filled with authority and warmth, was perfectly suited for the role of game show announcer, a job that requires both excitement and a sense of gravitas. His catchphrase, “Come on down!” from “The Price Is Right,” became one of the most iconic lines in television history.
George Pardo: A Lesser-Known Yet Talented Member of the Pardo Family
While Don Pardo is a name synonymous with television history, George Pardo, his son, has carved out his own path, albeit in a quieter manner. Unlike his father, George Pardo chose a career away from the spotlight. He pursued a career in business and finance, working in various capacities across different companies. Though his achievements were in fields far removed from broadcasting, George carried the same work ethic and dedication that his father exemplified.
George Pardo was known for his sharp business acumen and his ability to navigate the complexities of corporate finance. His work, though not as public as his father’s, had a significant impact on the companies he worked for. He was also a supportive son, deeply respectful of his father’s legendary status, but content with his own professional achievements in a different arena.
Though George Pardo may not be a household name like his father, his contributions to his chosen field and his support of his father’s legacy have made him an important, if less visible, part of the Pardo family story.
Saturday Night Live: An Iconic Legacy
Despite his many achievements, Don Pardo is perhaps best known for his work on “Saturday Night Live.” When the show premiered on October 11, 1975, Pardo was chosen to be the show’s announcer, a role he would hold for 38 seasons. His voice became an integral part of the show’s identity, introducing the cast each week with his distinctive style. Pardo’s enthusiastic delivery, even as he aged, gave SNL a timeless quality, linking generations of viewers to the show’s original spirit.
Pardo’s involvement with SNL was so essential that even after he officially retired from NBC in 2004, he continued to announce for the show. From his home in Arizona, Pardo recorded his segments and sent them to New York, ensuring that his voice would still open each episode. His unwavering dedication to SNL and his unique voice made him a beloved figure among both the cast and the audience.
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Later Life and Legacy
Don Pardo’s influence on television and broadcasting is immeasurable. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2010, a testament to his contributions to the industry. Even in his later years, Pardo remained a vital part of SNL, right up until his passing on August 18, 2014, at the age of 96.
Pardo’s voice was synonymous with the golden age of television, and his work influenced countless announcers and broadcasters who came after him. His ability to inject energy, authority, and a touch of humor into his announcements made him one of the most recognizable voices in television history. Don Pardo’s legacy lives on in the countless shows and moments he helped create, and in the memories of viewers who grew up hearing his voice.