Former Radio City DJ Johnny Kennedy will be honoured with a tribute show next month, inspired by a letter from Hollywood star Karolyn Grimes. The event aims to raise money for the Liverpool Taxi Drivers Children in Care Outing Fund.
Celebrating a Merseyside entertainer
Johnny Kennedy, originally from Everton, died on January 24, 2024, at the age of 88. He was best known for his work on Radio City, and also appeared on Dune FM, Wirral Radio and River Radio. He was also a singer and comedian, a fixture of the Northern club circuit before performing on some of the country's biggest stages, including the Liverpool Empire and London Palladium, as well as compèring for The Beatles.
Alongside his award-winning career, which combined showbiz with being a schoolmaster, Johnny raised money for Merseyside charities by running marathons. Every year since his death, fellow entertainers have performed on his birthday to ensure his good work continues.
Inspired by a Hollywood connection
The tribute show takes inspiration from the support Karolyn Grimes showed to Johnny's widow, Linda McDermott. The American actress is best known for her role as Zuzu Bailey in the 1946 Christmas classic It's a Wonderful Life.
Linda said: "I was introduced to the lovely Karolyn by a good friend and when I lost Johnny, Karolyn sent me a beautiful letter and then a separate package arrived containing a bell, a heart and an angel. On it Karolyn had written 'It's a Wonderful Life'."
She added: "It was also a reminder of the world famous line she says to her Dad Jimmy Stewart at the end of the film; 'Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.' The phrase symbolises that good deeds, love and a kind life are recognised and rewarded, and Johnny's whole life was a tremendous example of that."
Fundraising for children in care
The show will take place at the Woodlands Club in West Derby on Friday, December 18. It will be compered by Roger Lyon and will feature Merseyside community choir Singing Our Socks Off alongside singers Joe Wall, Robin Lee, Sheila Callaghan, Steve Macfarlane and Dave Michaelson.
Linda said: "Zuzu's bell from Karolyn will hang in pride of place on the tree during the show, reminding us that Johnny's good works, his enormous love for his city and the tremendous friendships he inspired live on."
Tickets cost £10 and can be bought from the club or over the phone on 0151 291 6030.
