John LaBarca, a beloved figure in radio known for his enthusiasm and pride in his Italian roots, has sadly passed away at the age of 76, as confirmed by messages on his Facebook page. According to Only in Bridgeport, LaBarca, affectionately referred to as the “jovial giant,” captivated audiences with his flagship Sunday program, Italian House Party, which aired on various local radio stations, most notably WICC.
Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, LaBarca embarked on his career at Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan, where he quickly rose to the position of captain. This opportunity allowed him to cultivate his storytelling skills, captivating listeners with his engaging anecdotes and a knack for connecting with people. His tales revolved around relatable themes from his childhood, such as food, holidays, family, and music.
He also displayed remarkable generosity towards community organizations, utilizing his influential platform to support numerous charitable institutions.
LaBarca’s charisma was accompanied by a genuine sensitivity that allowed him to express tears and contagious laughter effortlessly. Embracing his bear-like stature, receiving a hug from him was a delightful experience filled with joy. Additionally, for a span of two decades, he served as the morning drive host on WICC from Monday to Friday, collaborating with esteemed individuals such as news director Tim Quinn and “Captain Traffic” Morgan Kaolian.
His immense popularity was evident when, following his departure from WICC in 2007, the station received an overwhelming influx of outraged phone calls from Connecticut and Long Island. LaBarca’s resonant voice and the station’s extensive reach had attracted a loyal following, extending as far as Long Island, a mere 20 miles away from WICC’s transmitter on Pleasure Beach.
The landscape of AM radio, reminiscent of LaBarca’s formative years, was undergoing significant changes, which LaBarca observed outside the broadcast booth.
“At one point, people grew up listening to me until corporate influence took over and lost sight of the true essence of AM radio,” he commented. “Instead of connecting with the audience, they opted for shows featuring confrontational arguments or rapid-fire conversations. AM radio has become excessively regimented.”
LaBarca witnessed the ups and downs of the industry, transitioning from one station to another in the years following his departure from WICC. However, recently, he discovered a new home at radio station WHLI, where he continued to share his Italian House Party with familiar and fresh listeners.
