Johnnie Walters

Who is Johnnie Walters?

John Leigh "Johnnie" Walters is a retired Canadian broadcaster and television personality known for his on-air improvisation and sense of humour. He is best known for his long affiliation with CKCO-TV in Kitchener, Ontario.

He received his training on American TV and radio, developing his style hosting TV shows in U.S. cities. According to Harold Ramis in Dave Thomas's book, SCTV: Behind The Scenes, the SCTV "Dialing For Dollars" spoofs were based on the show of that name hosted by Walters in St. Louis. His early gigs included radio hosting at WHK in Ohio, and a daily show WLW-TV in Cincinnati with Vivian Della Chiesa, from 1964-68.

Walters joined CKCO-TV as the host of Horoscope Dollars, a low-budget show featuring Walters calling area residents at random with a question, the correct answer to which depended on them viewing that particular show. Some of the most entertaining moments came during the time spent dialing and waiting for numbers to connect, as he engaged in informal banter with offscreen crew and organist Pat Ludwig.