‘Big Chuck’ Schodowski Obituary, Death News: Cleveland TV Icon “Big Chuck” Schodowski Dies at 90

– Chuck Mitchell Schodowski, the beloved Cleveland television personality known as “Big Chuck,” has passed away at the age of 90, according to a report on the Fox 8 News website. Schodowski’s death marks the end of an era for local TV, where he became a legendary figure for his decades of late-night entertainment. No cause of death has been provided at this time.

Born on June 28, 1934, in Cleveland, Schodowski grew up in a Polish neighborhood at Harvard Avenue and East 71st Street. He joined WJW Channel 8 in 1960, beginning his career behind the scenes before working closely with Ernie Anderson, a local TV pioneer. Anderson had launched the late-night “Ghoulardi” show in 1963, which became both a ratings powerhouse and a cultural sensation. Schodowski played a significant role in the show’s success, assisting Anderson behind the scenes and quickly becoming his trusted collaborator.

When Anderson left for Hollywood in 1966, Schodowski stepped into the spotlight, taking over the late-night show and teaming up with WJW weatherman Bob Wells, known as Hoolihan, to co-host The Hoolihan and Big Chuck Show. The show debuted in December 1966 and continued the tradition of “Ghoulardi” by airing horror films, low-budget B-movies, and entertaining viewers with skits like “The Kielbasy Kid” and musical parodies, such as mock videos to popular songs like “The Streak.”

In 1979, when Hoolihan left to pursue Christian radio broadcasting, Schodowski once again adapted, introducing a new dynamic by teaming up with John “Lil’ John” Rinaldi, a small-statured comedian and longtime collaborator who had first appeared on The Hoolihan and Big Chuck Show in 1969. This pairing gave birth to The Big Chuck & Lil’ John Show, which became a staple of Cleveland’s late-night television for decades, further solidifying Schodowski’s place in local TV history.

Schodowski continued to entertain Clevelanders on late-night television until his retirement from WJW Channel 8 in 2007. Even after his official retirement, Schodowski remained active in the Cleveland TV scene, continuing to host a repackaged “Best-of” version of The Big Chuck & Lil’ John Show with Rinaldi for several more years, delighting both long-time fans and new viewers alike.

In a 2016 interview with The Plain Dealer, Schodowski reflected on his illustrious career and the impact of his work on Cleveland television. He shared stories about the many famous guests who had appeared on his shows, including iconic figures like Muhammad Ali, who made an appearance on the show. His career was marked by an ability to adapt, staying relevant and entertaining throughout the years, as well as by his signature humor, warmth, and approachable style.

Schodowski’s work left an indelible mark on Cleveland TV. He not only entertained but also created a sense of community for his viewers, with fans growing up watching his shows and often feeling like they knew him personally. His collaborations with figures like Hoolihan and Lil’ John transformed the landscape of local television, influencing generations of future broadcasters and comedians.

In his later years, Schodowski was honored for his contributions to local television. He became a cherished figure, beloved not only for his on-screen presence but also for his down-to-earth nature and his connection to the Cleveland community. His death marks the loss of one of Cleveland’s most enduring television icons, but his legacy continues to live on through the generations of viewers who remember his unforgettable contribution to local TV.

Schodowski’s passing serves as a reminder of how local television personalities can become not just entertainers but integral parts of a community’s culture. As one of Cleveland’s most iconic figures, “Big Chuck” Schodowski will always be remembered as a pioneer who brought laughter, fun, and a sense of camaraderie to his loyal audience.