Johnny Canales, the iconic TV host who dedicated his career to promoting Norteño and Tejano music in the United States, has died at age 77. The announcement was made on his Facebook page on Thursday (June 13).
“He was more than a loving husband, father, TV presenter, musician and entertainer. it was a beacon of hope and joy for countless people.” reads the message. “His contagious charisma and dedication to promoting Latino music and culture left a great mark on the world. Johnny's spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy he built.”
The Johnny Canales Show it was an important platform for local Mexican music artists, including Los Tigres del Norte, Los Relámpagos del Norte and Intocable, and was the main driver of Selena's career. “You got it, get it” was one of the most famous phrases Canales used in his shows to encourage artists in their budding careers.
Born in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, he moved to the Corpus Christi, Texas area at a very young age. From a young age he showed his passion for music and became a singer. However, it was in television hosting that he found stardom.
From 1988 to 1996, his program was broadcast on the Univision network, which allowed him to reach thousands of Mexicans living in the United States and become a cultural standard bearer for immigrants. In 1997 he joined Telemundo, where he remained for several years and later, his own show would air on their networks.
However, Canales' health began to deteriorate in 2008 after a stroke that led to a loss of mobility and forced him to quit broadcasting. In early 2024 he appeared on the networks in delicate health, reporting himself stable from his home. However, he would grow weaker and weaker until his last days.
Below, check out a clip of Johnny Canales in action.
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