Big Boy | Extended Interview | THE THREAD Documentary Series

The extended interview with Big Boy from The Thread docuseries is now available! In this heartfelt conversation, the legendary host recounts his incredible journey to becoming a celebrated radio personality. He reflects on his early years growing up in Peoria, Illinois, and Los Angeles, where he was raised by a single mother in a loving but financially strained household. Big Boy opens up about his experiences during hip-hop's formative years, his struggles with weight, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. From a transformative encounter with Will Smith to his rise as a prominent radio star, Big Boy’s story is a powerful testament to determination. Don’t miss this profound and uplifting tale of resilience and triumph from one of radio’s leading figures.

Radio Personality Big Boy was born Kurt Alexander in Chicago, the man who became famous as the literally larger-than-life Big Boy was working as a 400-pound bodyguard for hip-hop group The Pharcyde when he began his radio career in 1994 at KPWR/Los Angeles. His comedic and conversational skills led to success with overnight and afternoon shows before KPWR asked him to host the station’s morning show in 1997.The result was Big Boy’s Neighborhood, a show that combined hip-hop music, celebrity guests, Hollywood gossip and prank phone calls (performed by alter ego Luther Luffeigh). With the help of a supporting cast that over the years has included Hollywood reporter Luscious Liz Hernandez, “stuntman” Louie G and entertainment correspondent Natalia Perez, Big Boy’s Neighborhood quickly enjoyed huge success among younger urban listeners. The success of the morning show led to the 2006 creation of Big Boy’s Hip Hop Spot, a weekend show focusing on hip hop and Hollywood news. After a decade on the air in Los Angeles, ABC Radio Network began syndicating Big Boy’s daily and weekend shows nationwide in 2007. At its peak, Big Boy’s programs were heard in 35 major markets. In 2015, Big Boy moved his show to KRRL/Los Angeles. In that same year he was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame. The National Association of Broadcasters has also recognized Big Boy’s exceptional talent with the Marconi Award, a very rare three times. Big Boy is married to Victoria Alexander; they have 2 children.

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Chapter Markers:
00:00:00 - Childhood in Peoria and Los Angeles
00:02:29 - Life without a father
00:04:45 - Homelessness and motels
00:09:50 - Early love for hip hop
00:10:04 - Discovering Rapper’s Delight
00:13:28 - Struggles with weight and food
00:17:21 - Hip hop fashion
00:19:20 - Becoming Emcee Scratch
00:26:37 - The rise of gangsta rap
00:33:36 - Dodging bad decisions
00:41:19 - Becoming Big Boy
00:46:48 - Gaining weight
00:51:59 - Making tough choices
00:59:02 - A close call with police
01:02:21 - Meeting Paul Stewart
01:11:22 - Facing racism in Ohio
01:21:00 - Early radio days
01:30:45 - Transition to radio
01:42:15 - Challenges in radio
01:55:00 - Reflections on life and success

Kurt “Big Boy” Alexander, Radio Host
Interviewed By: Ari Fishman
Interview Date: September 1, 2023

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