WICC supports effort for Bob Crane's induction into HOF

[Bill-in-CT]

Several people, mostly former radio co-workers, have sent letters to the National Radio Hall of Fame seeking Bob Crane's induction. WICC in Bridgeport also sent a letter. Bob Crane was the popular morning man at WICC in the 50s before he went to KNX in LA. More info in the 6/7/11 blog entry at http://vote4bobcrane.blogspot.com

 

[GlennO]

The details of Crane's shocking 1978 murder tend to overshadow our memory of this radio and TV star. Crane headed up an exceptional cast on "Hogan's Heroes" that could even make a German WWII prison camp funny. His background in Connecticut radio (WBIS briefly, then WICC) provided the springboard to KNX Los Angeles, then onto the Donna Reed Show and eventually his big break as Colonel Hogan. He always gave credit to his Connecticut radio roots, and was interviewed locally on 91Q very shortly before his tragic death. He was a TV star, but this multi-talented guy clearly loved radio and accomplished a lot in it. By the way, Crane said in an earlier interview that he heard from a real Colonel Hogan who actually was a POW in Stalag 13.

 

[BRNout]

The man shouldn't be defined by his tragic end at the hands of a lunatic. Yes, he was doing the wrong things in the wrong place at the wrong time. But this should not overshadow a fine career as an entertainer on TV and radio. By all accounts he was a very decent guy to work with. It is my hope that he will be honored with an induction to the HOF.

 

[DToTheJ]

Not to compare, of course, but if folks are willing to forgive Roman Polanski, Bob Crane should get his due, too.

 

[CMFORD714]

Exactly. In fact, it doesn't take much effort to come up with a list of celebrities and other public figures who have been caught up in some rather awful scandals - in many cases, far worse than that of Bob Crane - and yet remain not only forgiven, but exalted, by the public. It is important to remember that Bob Crane recognized his problem as a very damaging force in his life and had committed to getting professional help just before his death. In today's enlightened world, we would - and should - applaud such courage, as we have done and continue to do for so many others.

 

[RobertAnthony]

The man shouldn't be defined by his tragic end at the hands of a lunatic. Yes, he was doing the wrong things in the wrong place at the wrong time. But this should not overshadow a fine career as an entertainer on TV and radio. By all accounts he was a very decent guy to work with. It is my hope that he will be honored with an induction to the HOF.

I concur with that statement.