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Kansas City Says Farewell to TV Legend Torey Southwick

A vibrant children's TV studio filled with laughter and fun, reminiscent of the beloved 'Torey Time'.

News Summary

Kansas City mourns the loss of Torey Southwick, host of the beloved children’s show ‘Torey Time’. At 94, Southwick left a lasting impact on childhoods in the area, known for his charm and interactive fun. A beloved figure, he connected with generations of kids, becoming their surrogate parent through unforgettable shows that enriched their early years. His passing has evoked warm memories from fans, exemplifying his legacy in children’s television.

Kansas City Mourns the Loss of Children’s TV Icon Torey Southwick

The city of Kansas City is saying a heartfelt goodbye to a beloved figure who shaped the childhoods of many. Torey Southwick, the charming host of the wildly popular Torey Time, passed away last month at the age of 94 in Bethesda, Maryland. This cherished TV show, known for its enchanting blend of cartoons, games, and interactive fun, was a staple in the homes of countless baby boomers across the greater Kansas City area.

A Star of the Screen

Torey Southwick, with his trusty puppet sidekick Ol’ Gus, captured the imaginations of young audiences during the vibrant 1960s. Airing on KMBC-TV 9, Torey Time was like a magical wonderland, broadcasting live for a whopping 30 hours a week on weekday mornings, afternoons, and Saturday mornings. At its peak, the show reached an unprecedented audience rating of 55, which blew more famous shows like Today and Captain Kangaroo right out of the water. It’s hard to imagine how those numbers would feel in today’s fragmented media landscape!

Creating Connections

Throughout his illustrious career, Southwick became more than just a television personality; he was like a surrogate parent to many children. The warmth and charm he exuded drew viewers in, fostering a sense of connection that many fans still cherish today. Some even described him as their “only friend,” emphasizing just how deeply he touched their lives.

Southwick’s fame didn’t go unnoticed; the show attracted notable guests including celebrities like Chuck Connors and Sally Field, and even former vice president Hubert Humphrey made a memorable appearance. Their spontaneous encounter made headlines and featured on the national ABC evening news, showcasing the buzz Torey Time created beyond local borders.

Fun and Games

The show offered a delightful range of content, including interactive segments that invited children from the studio audience to join in on various games and contests. Southwick, not a ventriloquist by trade, brought Ol’ Gus to life with his vocal talents, delighting viewers with their playful banter. The interactive nature of the show undoubtedly contributed to its massive popularity.

A Community Treasure

During Southwick’s time, there were only three network affiliates in Kansas City, forming a tight-knit community of children’s television hosts. This close connection among local hosts created a unique viewing experience that is unlikely to happen in today’s world of endless channel choices and digital platforms.

A Lasting Legacy

As news of Southwick’s passing spread, many fans took to social media and reminisced about their treasured memories of Torey Time, recalling how it was a cornerstone of their childhoods. They painted a picture of a simpler time, where family outings sometimes turned chaotic due to the star’s immense popularity during supermarket grand openings and community events.

In the midst of this modern, fast-paced world, let’s take a moment to honor the man who brought joy to so many. Torey Southwick’s legacy as Kansas City’s cherished children’s television icon will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to grow up with him. As the curtain falls on this chapter, we remember the laughter, the fun, and the wonderful memories that Torey Time gifted to generations. Rest in peace, dear Torey. You’ll always be a star in our eyes.