Beloved Charlotte radio host David “Ace” Cannon has unexpectedly passed away at the age of 56.
HITS 96.1, a station where Cannon left an indelible mark, relayed the news of Cannon’s death to listeners yesterday. The radio station said “Cannon was an important part of so many people’s lives,” providing companionship, joy, and laughter to countless fans and colleagues, creating a sense of community that transcended mere broadcast.
Cannon was well-known as one half of the “The Ace & TJ Show,” which he co-hosted from its inception in 1993 until September 2024. Broadcasting from Louisiana and Alabama, the show made a pivotal move to Charlotte in 1998, where it quickly became a fixture within the local radio landscape. “The Ace & TJ Show” spent two decades on the air in the Queen City, first on HITS 96.1, and later on K104.7.
In the wake of Cannon’s passing, an outpouring of tributes flooded social media from radio industry colleagues and friends, reflecting on the profound impact he had on their lives and careers.
Cannon’s departure from The Ace & TJ Show in September 2024 came as a shock, prompting the show to rebrand itself as “The TJ & Riggins Show.” Amidst the transition, Cannon made a brief return in October, opening up about his personal struggles, including his ongoing divorce, and expressing his commitment to self-improvement and paving a brighter future for himself.
“Our prayers are with our brother,” the show conveyed on Facebook, echoing the sentiments of devastation felt by those who knew him.
As of now, the cause of Cannon’s death has not been disclosed. He is survived by his sons, Cade and Dax, his wife Amanda, and his sister, Piper.
Jason Barrett is the Founder and CEO of Barrett Media. The company launched in September 2015 and has provided consulting services to America’s top audio and video brands, while simultaneously covering the media industry at BarrettMedia.com, becoming a daily destination for media professionals. Prior to Barrett Media, Jason built and programmed 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He was also the first sports programmer for SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, which later became 97.5 The Fanatic. Barrett also led 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY, and worked on-air and behind the scenes at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years at ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT producing ‘The Dan Patrick Show’ and ‘GameNight’. JB can be reached on Twitter @SportsRadioPD or by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
