KURT ‘BIG BOY’ ALEXANDER

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.

Kurt “Big Boy” Alexander was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2015.