TSR Take A Moment: James “Radio” Kennedy, the mentally challenged man who inspired the film “Radio” starring Cuba Gooding Jr., has passed away at the age of 73, TMZ reports.
Radio was a legend in Anderson, South Carolina, and was the heart and soul of T.L. Hanna High School since the 60s, where he attended football games and often led the team onto the field.
His story received national attention back in 1996 when Sports Illustrated ran a story about him and football coach Harold Jones. The story later inspired the popular film by his nickname.
Jones confirmed Kennedy’s death today, saying, “He was just a fine man. We all loved him. We will miss him incredibly.” Kennedy had reportedly been ill and had been in the hospital for some time.
He had been recently moved to a hospice facility.
Even after the fame, Radio continued to be an inspiration to the town and was inducted into the T.L. Hanna Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016.
We are praying for Kennedy’s family at this time and to all those affected by his passing.
