Roy Leonard (born LeRoy Stewart Leonard; January 19, 1931 – September 4, 2014) was a prominent American radio and television broadcaster based in Chicago. He became widely known for his warm, conversational interview style and for hosting WGN's midday radio program for three decades. Leonard was also a familiar face on WGN-TV, appearing on news segments and annual holiday specials that reached viewers across the Chicago area.

Career and broadcasting style

Leonard built a reputation as a genial interviewer who welcomed a broad mix of guests, from entertainers and authors to local civic leaders. His weekday midday program on WGN radio ran for 31 years, a tenure that made him a steady presence in many Chicago listeners' daily routines. He combined light talk, interviews, and community-oriented features, cultivating an approachable on-air persona that emphasized conversation over confrontation.

Work in television

In addition to his radio duties, Leonard appeared regularly on WGN-TV where he contributed to news segments and special programming. After the death of longtime host Frazier Thomas, Leonard took over hosting duties for the Family Classics film series for a period, helping to maintain that program's tradition of presenting classic family films to television audiences. He was also associated with WGN's seasonal and holiday television specials, which added to his visibility beyond radio.

Over the course of his career Leonard interviewed many notable figures and supported local cultural institutions. His approachable manner made him a link between national personalities and neighborhood concerns, and he became part of the fabric of Chicago broadcasting during the latter half of the 20th century.

Death and legacy

Leonard died on September 4, 2014, at a hospital in Evanston, Illinois, from complications related to an esophageal infection. He was 83. Colleagues and listeners remembered him for his steady presence on air and his role in sustaining beloved local programs. Retrospectives on his career emphasize his longevity, his connection to Chicago audiences, and his contributions to both radio and television at WGN.

Notable roles and further information

  • Longtime host of the WGN midday radio show — 31 years on air.
  • Frequent contributor to WGN-TV news and special programming.
  • Host for the Family Classics television series following Frazier Thomas's death.

For more background and archival materials, see station histories and local media retrospectives: WGN radio history, WGN-TV programming, and memorial or obituary collections at local news archives: obituary summary, career retrospective.