September 19, 2008 (New York, NY) – Glenn Beck received the 2008 Marconi Award for Network Syndicated Personality of the Year from the National Association of Broadcasters. The Award was announced Thursday night at the annual NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner. Beck’s self-titled national show “The Glenn Beck Program,” syndicated by Premiere Radio Networks, launched nationally on 47 stations in January 2002. Beck’s show is now heard on over 300 stations nationwide, and is the 3rd most listened to talk show in America among adults 25-54.
“I am so proud to be associated with the legendary broadcasters that have been honored with a Marconi,” said Beck. “In many ways I am still the 8-year-old kid who listened to Paul Harvey's voice come out of my dad’s radio at our bakery. I didn't want to be in radio for any other reason than that voice could paint pictures that no other medium could. To Mr. Harvey, all the people that helped early on and still help me today, Wow. Thanks.”
President of Premiere Radio Networks Charlie Rahilly stated, "Glenn's conversation with millions of Americans weekly on The Glenn Beck Program, which also extends itself through television and best-selling books, makes him a familiar voice in our culture. We salute his work, creativity, and humor, and congratulate him on this genuine recognition by our industry."
Previous Marconi award winners in the “Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year” category include Paul Harvey, Rush Limbaugh, and Sean Hannity.
Beck started in radio at age 13 and at age 18 had a Top 40 morning show in several major markets, but his career stalled when he suffered from drug and alcohol addiction. He turned his life around and decided to pursue talk radio, beginning with an 18th placed show in Tampa, Florida. Glenn took it to #1 within his first year and received an offer from Premiere Radio Networks to go national.
About Glenn Beck
Glenn Beck is the host and star of the third most listened-to radio show in America, as well as Headline News’ Glenn Beck, one of the fastest-growing TV shows in cable news. Beck is author of two books, including the recent #1 New York Times Best Seller “An Inconvenient Book.” Known for his quick wit and engaging personality, Beck has attracted millions of viewers and listeners. His radio show, The Glenn Beck Program, is heard on over 300 stations nationwide and on XM Satellite Radio. For more information, visit http://www.glennbeck.com.