Boston is mourning the loss of a broadcast icon.
WCVB‘s Frank Avruch died on Tuesday at the age of 89. His career at the station spanned for over 40 years.
“Frank Avruch was one of the most influential and beloved personalities on Boston television and a cherished member of the Channel 5 family,” said Bill Fine, WCVB president and general manager. “Frank’s talent was limitless, whether as host of ‘The Great Entertainment,’ ‘Boston’s Man About Town,’ or ‘Bozo the Clown;’ he could do it all. His kindness and enthusiasm were contagious, his style elegant, with an unmistakable voice to match.”
Avurch wasn’t your average reporter or host.
He was the host of a classic film series, served as Boston’s ‘Man About Town’ and ‘Goodwill Ambassador’ in addition to being the voice behind many Channel 5 promotional announcements. He played ‘Bozo the Clown’ in the 60’s.
Avruch was inducted into National Association of Television Arts and Sciences Gold Circle in 2010 and the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2007. He attended the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism and completed his bachelor’s degree in Communication at Boston University in 1949.