Dick Smyth has been described as a true original. A native of Montreal, he got his first radio job at a station in Cornwall and went on to build his career at CKLW-AM Windsor where he remained until 1969 when he became news director at CHUM in Toronto where his newscast and often controversial commentary became a morning mainstay. Always pushing for “more news” his trademark booming radio voice was the first voice listeners heard when Toronto’s 680 News went on the air in 1993. He became a familiar face on CityNews offering unapologetic opinions and commentaries which landed him in hot water. After retiring, Smyth continued producing syndicated radio commentary for more than a decade.

Smyth received many honours throughout his career including the first International RTNDA awarded to a Canadian for his coverage of the Detroit Riots in 1967. His commentaries won six consecutive RTNDA Canada regional awards for Best Editorial. Smyth was also awarded the coveted President’s Award in 1992 for outstanding contribution to Canadian broadcasting. He served as President of RTNDA Canada in 1979 as well as past president of the Windsor Press Club.