In Memoriam: Richard Hake

 

The following statement was submitted by Goli Sheikholeslami, President and CEO of New York Public Radio.

Dear Friends, 

I write with great sadness to share that Richard Hake, the beloved host of WNYC’s Morning Edition, passed away suddenly on Friday. This is a tremendous loss for the entire New York Public Radio community, and the city of New York.

You may have already heard this difficult news on our air, but I wanted to be in touch with you directly to share.

Richard worked at WNYC for almost three decades, and he truly loved serving our audiences. The note below was posted on our website yesterday, and we are collecting your reflections online—on WNYC.org, Gothamist.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

For all of us at New York Public Radio and in WNYC’s listening community, Richard was one of the first voices we heard every morning. As the host of Morning Edition, he brought us the news, welcomed the new day, and helped us get ready for whatever lay ahead. It was the position he always wanted, and he worked very hard to get there. He loved to say he “woke up New York,” and he brought the same warmth and generosity to listeners that he shared with his colleagues everyday.

Richard worked at WNYC for nearly 30 years as a host, reporter, and producer. He was an extraordinary broadcaster and journalist who had a passion for excellence, and who took great pride in serving our audience. We will remember him very warmly.

We know this incredibly difficult news is made only more challenging by our inability to be together in person. The newsroom is planning a tribute to celebrate Richard’s incredible legacy. 

The entire senior leadership team is here for you.

Thank you, as always, for your friendship and support. 

From The G-Man and The G-Man Interviews salute the legacy of Richard Hake and his contribution to journalism and New York City. May he forever rest in peace.