Johnny Olson - Definition and Overview

Johnny Olson, full name John Leonard Olson (May 22, 1910-October 12, 1985), was a beloved American radio and television announcer.

Born in Windom, Minnesota, Olson became known for his announcer roles on television game shows from the 1950s to the 1980s. His many credits included 32 game shows -- including To Tell The Truth, Concentration, and Match Game -- as well as The Jackie Gleason Show.

Olson is best known for his appearance on the American version of The Price is Right from its inception on September 4, 1972, until his death; Rod Roddy succeeded him shortly afterwards. More than just an announcer of prizes, Olson was a loved and valued member of the show's cast.

Olson died of a cerebral hemorrhage at the age of 75 in Santa Monica, California.

External links

• Internet Movie Database: Johnny Olson (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0647692/)
• A Tribute to Johnny Olson (http://www.jrjgames.com/main/randy/johnny/index.html), written by fellow announcer Randy West
• [http://members.fortunecity.com/jd83/tpir-75.rm ( to hear the opening to this 1975 episode with Johnny O and "The Price is right!)