Russ Parr facts for kids

Russ Parr (born in 1959) is an American entertainer famous for his work as a radio DJ, actor, and movie director. For many years, he hosted a popular morning radio show that was heard by millions of people across the United States. He is also known for his funny music and appearances on TV shows like Rock 'N' America.

A Career in Entertainment

Russ Parr's journey into the world of entertainment began at the ABC television network. He later became a morning DJ at the radio station KDAY in California. On his show, he was famous for doing funny impressions of celebrities like basketball star Magic Johnson and President Ronald Reagan.

Besides radio, Parr also spent eight years as a stand-up comedian. His very first show was opening for the famous comedian Joan Rivers. He also acted in several TV shows, including Martin and The Jenny Jones Show, and appeared in commercials for big companies like Kodak and McDonald's.

Bobby Jimmy: The Musical Comedian

Parr released the first album for Bobby Jimmy & the Critters titled Ugly Knuckle Butt in 1985

Before he was a famous radio host, Russ Parr had a music career under a different name: Bobby Jimmy. In the mid-1980s, he created a character named Bobby Jimmy and started a group called "the Critters."

As Bobby Jimmy, Parr made comedy songs that were parodies of popular hits. A parody is a funny version of a serious song. Some of his well-known songs include:

• "Roaches": A parody of the song "Rumors" by Timex Social Club.
• "One Glove": A funny song about pop star Michael Jackson.
• "Ugly Knuckle Butt": A silly song that is still sometimes played on comedy radio shows.

Bobby Jimmy and the Critters released three albums. The group was also connected to the famous hip-hop group N.W.A, as one of its members, Arabian Prince, was also part of The Critters.

A Star on the Radio Waves

In 1989, Parr moved from California to Dallas, Texas, to work at the radio station KJMZ. A few years later, in 1996, he moved to Washington, D.C., to work at 93.9 WKYS-FM. This is where he started the famous Russ Parr Morning Show.

The show quickly became the number one morning show in the city. Soon, it was syndicated, which means it was broadcast on many different radio stations all over the country. At its peak, the Russ Parr Morning Show was heard by more than 3 million listeners in 45 cities. Parr also hosted a weekend radio show called On Air with Russ Parr.

After many successful years, Parr announced the end of his morning show in December 2023.

Work in Movies and Television

Russ Parr didn't just stick to radio. He also became a movie director. His first film was a drama called The Last Stand (2006). He went on to direct several comedy movies, including Love for Sale, Something Like a Business, and 35 and Ticking.

In addition to his radio work, Parr was the co-host of a dating show on the TV One network.