Don Pardo: SNL's Iconic Voice Fades to Silence

Don Pardo, the instantly recognizable voice behind Saturday Night Live for decades, passed away peacefully on Monday evening at his home in Tucson, Arizona. He was 96.

Pardo, a 31-year NBC veteran, became the show's announcer in 1975. His booming baritone and authoritative delivery became a signature element of SNL, famously introducing the cast each week with "It's Saturday Night!". He was the first announcer inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2010.

His career began long before SNL. As an NBC staff announcer on November 22, 1963, Pardo was among the first to deliver the tragic news of President John F. Kennedy's assassination to the nation. His work also included game shows like The Price Is Right and Jeopardy.

Pardo once shared that he received a lifetime contract from NBC, a distinction held by very few, including Bob Hope. This allowed him to continue his work remotely from Arizona in his later years, solidifying his legendary status in broadcasting.