Engineer and producer. Born: 1963 in Edmonton, AB, Canada. Died: August 2012 in Edmonton.
In addition to acting in movies, Kennedy worked as a television newscaster for WWJ and WDIV-TV in Detroit during the 1950s. He later moved to Windsor, Ontario, broadcasting for CLKW-TV; and in 1969 to Southfield, Michigan, for WKBD-TV. He returned to Detroit in the early 1980s.
In the last half of the 1950s and well into the 60s he hosted a movie show on CKLW (Channel 9). The show originated in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, but was widely received in the greater Detroit area. His show specialized in films from the 30s and 40s; and he occasionally featured films he had appeared in. He answered questions mailed in to him about Hollywood, and frequently shared his experiences from his days in Hollywood and his knowledge of movie stars from his era.
Usually cast in officious or straight-laced roles such as reporters, cops or bankers, in an offbeat bit of casting, he played the character who sets fire to Ingrid Bergman in the role of Joan of Arc .
His one-time recording deal as the "Superman" announcer netted him only $350. He regretted not asking for screen credit which would have earned him much more in the long run.
Married twice, his first wife bore him three children. She died tragically in 1958 after choking on food. He later married Suzanne Wiggins, who survived him.
Kennedy recorded the Opening announcement for Superman during an all-night session, related by him on his movie-host program. After being paid $350 for the Opening announcing, performed at an all-night recording session according to Kennedy uncredited announcer, he was brought back many times as an uncredited bit player or off-screen voice. He appeared as the Announcer at a Race Track in his only credited role, during the color episode Joey, Season 4, Episode 1.
Grandson-in-law of Bob Elliott.
Brother-in-law of Bridey Elliott.
Son-in-law of Chris Elliott and Paula Niedert Elliott.
When I was dropped summarily by Warner Bros.
