Garry Lee Wright: Celebrated Radio Host and Comedian
Garry Lee Wright, a versatile radio host, stand-up comedian, and writer, bolstered his career with multiple cross-country stints that included notable roles at Chicago’s WXRT-FM and WGN-AM. He passed away at the age of 74 on August 14 due to heart failure, confirmed by his daughter Amanda at her home in St. Charles. Wright had been contending with congestive heart failure and cardiac disease, receiving palliative care in his final days.
Career Highlights
Wright became widely recognized in the Chicago area for his contributions to WGN and WXRT, although his professional journey extended far beyond radio. He dabbled in various artistic endeavors, including stand-up comedy, writing a newspaper column, and authoring a memoir titled “Happiness for Beginners” in 2012. Wright also hosted a pandemic-era podcast and was known for his successful overnight show collaboration with Nick Digilio at WGN, despite their first meeting occurring on-air.
We had a great time on the air together,” Digilio reflected. “He helped make me the broadcaster I became.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1951 in Wilmington, Delaware, Wright’s early years saw multiple relocations, eventually bringing the family to Chesterton, Indiana. Following his high school graduation, he briefly attended Wisconsin State University at Whitewater before pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter in California. His eclectic job history included roles such as a cook, taxi driver, and factory worker before transitioning into radio advertising and media buying in Chicago at WXRT in 1975.
Returning to WXRT in 1978, Wright advanced to become the station’s morning drive host. Former colleague Charlie Meyerson highlighted Wright’s quick wit and compassion, noting their rarity in the radio industry.
New York and Beyond
After leaving WXRT, Wright pursued opportunities in New York City, including guest hosting for Barry Gray on WMCA radio and performing stand-up at renowned clubs. His career path later led him to radio roles in East Hampton and Southhold, New York. In 1998, he returned to Chicago to join WGN, where he co-hosted with Digilio and led his own Sunday night show.
Innovation and Legacy
While with WGN, Wright contributed insightful commentary, like his reflective column after the events of September 11, 2001. He encouraged resilience and courage among his readers during these challenging times. After departing from WGN in 2006, Wright self-published his memoir and continued exploring creative projects, such as developing a show during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite health challenges, including a 2022 stroke, Wright maintained his passion for generating new ideas and projects. His daughter shared that he was a curious individual, fascinated by people and the world, always brainstorming and writing.
Garry Lee Wright shared a long marriage with Laurel “Laurie” Neu, who passed away in 2015. Wright’s family includes his daughter Amanda, son Jason, another daughter Kelsey Parrish, a sister Bobbi Minchew, and three grandchildren. A celebration of life will occur on September 26 at Parrish’s home in Bartlett.