How Old Is Alex Bennett?
Alex Bennett is a renowned American radio personality known for his unique blend of left-wing politics and humor. Born Bennett Gordon Schwarzmann on December 18, 1939, he is currently 84 years old. With a long and illustrious career spanning decades, Bennett has left a lasting impact on the world of radio and comedy.
Early Years and Career in New York
Bennett was born in San Francisco and attended Drake High School. In the 1960s, he worked at various radio stations around the country, including KILT in Houston and WLOL in Minneapolis.
In 1969, he was recruited by WMCA in New York City, where he became an overnight talk show host during the station’s transition to an all-talk format. Bennett gained attention for his progressive rock radio sensibility and his participation in countercultural events.
He even flew to London to investigate the rumor of Paul McCartney’s death. During his time at WMCA, he befriended John Lennon and Yoko Ono and had them as guests on his show.
Career in San Francisco
After his time in New York, Bennett’s career brought him back to his hometown of San Francisco in the 1970s. He made a name for himself in the local radio scene with his unique style and charismatic presence.
He first landed a hosting gig on the morning show at KMEL, a popular rock station in the city. His wit and humor quickly won over audiences, and his popularity soared.
Eager to explore new opportunities, Bennett moved to KQAK, where he became known as “The Quake.” This station played a mix of alternative rock and new wave music, perfectly aligning with Bennett’s style and taste.
Not one to be confined to a single medium, Bennett also made a mark in the comedy scene. He hosted shows featuring famous comedians and produced sold-out live comedy events throughout San Francisco.
In addition to his radio and comedy work, Bennett expanded his presence on television. He hosted public television’s “Comedy Tonight” during the 1980s, bringing laughter to living rooms across the city.
Emmy Award for “Log On TV”
His hard work and dedication paid off when he won a local San Francisco Emmy Award for his work on “Log On TV” on KGO-TV 7. This accolade recognized his contribution to the local entertainment industry and cemented his status as a beloved figure in the city.
Bennett’s time in San Francisco was marked by his comedic prowess, radio success, and award-winning television work. He left a lasting impact on the city’s entertainment landscape and remains an influential figure in the industry.
Internet TV and Radio, SiriusXM
After leaving FM rock radio, Alex Bennett delved into the exciting world of Internet TV. He embarked on a new venture with PlayTV, bringing his unique blend of entertainment, politics, and humor to viewers across the globe. Bennett also showcased his technological expertise as he developed an early website called The Surfing Monkey, captivating audiences with his innovative online presence.
In 2001, Bennett made a brief return to radio, hosting a captivating technology-oriented talk show on CNET Radio. With his signature wit and insightful commentary, he engaged listeners with the latest tech trends, interviews with industry experts, and thought-provoking discussions that had everyone tuning in.
It was in 2004 that Bennett’s voice found a new home on the renowned SiriusXM channel “SIRIUS Left.” As the host of his own show, he continued to mesmerize audiences with his unique perspective on politics, culture, and current events. For almost a decade, Bennett’s captivating presence on SiriusXM made him a household name and a trusted voice to millions of listeners.
Never one to rest on his laurels, Alex Bennett launched GABNet.net, a groundbreaking live podcast network. Drawing on his vast experience and unyielding passion for broadcasting, Bennett hosts his own show on GABNet.net, welcoming listeners to join in the conversation through “Citizen Panels.” These group discussions provide a platform for his audience to voice their opinions, contributing to the dynamic and engaging nature of his podcasts. As an influential figure in the world of radio and podcasting, Bennett continues to shape the landscape with his unrivaled talent and unwavering dedication.
