Art Linkletter has passed on

[Dustysage]

A true legend and friend of Walt Disney has passed on at the grand old age of 97. Art Linkletter, you will be fondly remembered.

We couldn't do a better job of paying tribute than Jeffrey Epstein has just posted on D23:

Remembering Art Linkletter

Art Linkletter, a legendary star of radio and television who served as Master of Ceremonies for the opening day of Disneyland in 1955, died peacefully at home with his family on Wednesday, May 26. He was 97 years old.

Born in Moosejaw, Saskatchewan in 1912, Art was abandoned as an orphan and later adopted by a traveling minister and his wife. Fully intent on becoming a college professor, Art majored in English and Psychology and graduated from San Diego State College in 1934 with a B.A. degree. However during his last year in college, Art was offered a job as a radio announcer at Station KGB — a CBS outlet in San Diego. By the time he graduated, he was promoted to chief announcer and decided to remain in broadcasting.

Art was a star in show business for more than 75 years. His best-known shows established records for longevity. People Are Funny ran on NBC-TV and Radio for 19 years and was rated in the Top 10 for more than 11 years. House Party ran on CBS-TV and Radio for 26 years and was one of the top daytime shows from the day of its first broadcast in 1945. It won two Emmy Awards®, as well as numerous other nominations for awards. In addition, Art starred in and co-produced many television specials, as well as acting in half a dozen dramatic shows and motion pictures. Art also performed as the Master of Ceremonies for the opening day of Disneyland in 1955. He returned decades later to officiate at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Park on his 95th birthday.

Please read the full remembrance here:
D23 | The Official Community for Disney Fans

[AlohaStitch]

I remember watching his shows. He always came across as warm and genuine. We need more like him. Mr. Linkletter, thank you for all that you did and know that you will be missed.

[dmtnt55]

Rip.

[Barbossa]

Interesting. I did not know he was a Canuck from Moosejaw.

RIP Art.

[Eagleman]

I will sad.....
I knew him since I was a kid....watching his shows, being part opening day at Disneyland
along the side of Walt Disney ,
He have been around....
Rest in Peace ART!

[DarylF]

I didn't know he was Canadian, either! It was a joy to see him at the 50th celebration.

Thanks for making us laugh, Art!

[PanTheMan]

A True Classic.

[cablubber]

He was a true legend. We may never see another like him.