Local late-night television legend Charles “Big Chuck” Schodowski has passed away at the age of 90. A longtime resident of Medina County, Schodowski became an iconic figure for baby boomers and Gen Xers, thanks to his work on WJW Channel 8’s *The Hoolihan and Big Chuck Show* and *The Big Chuck and Lil’ John Show.*
Both shows are remembered fondly for their unique brand of humor, marked by a distinctive laugh track—a booming guffaw followed by two quick chuckles—that became a hallmark of their comedic skits. This signature sound effect not only punctuated punchlines but often elicited laughs on its own.
Schodowski’s journey to television began in a foundry, where he worked before deciding to pursue a career in broadcasting. He attended weekly classes for three years to earn his FCC license, eventually landing a summer position at WKYC-TV/Channel 3 in 1960. By fall, he secured full-time work at Channel 8, where his friendship with announcer Ernie Anderson would change the trajectory of his career.
In 1963, Schodowski began appearing in skits alongside Anderson’s alter ego, late-night host Ghoulardi. Among the most beloved was Schodowski’s role as Jerry Kriegal, the suave downstairs neighbor in *Parma Place,* a parody of *Peyton Place.* During this period, Schodowski also worked with future stars like Tim Conway, who eventually headed to Hollywood.
Balancing his engineering duties with comedy writing, Schodowski collaborated with WJW weatherman Bob Wells to create an audition tape aimed at filling Anderson’s hosting role after he left for the West Coast. The tape impressed station executives, leading to the launch of *The Hoolihan and Big Chuck Show.*
“I was terrified. I thought I was going to bomb,” Schodowski once admitted. “I didn’t want to do it, but I figured the show wouldn’t last. I was just scared of embarrassing my family.” Despite his initial apprehension, Schodowski quickly found his footing with the help of his co-host, Bob “Houli” Wells.
The show’s unexpected success stunned Schodowski. During the 1970s, it often outperformed *The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson* in ratings, a feat unparalleled by any other late-night program in the country. A 1986 *Wall Street Journal* article praised the duo, noting their contribution to keeping burlesque-style comedy alive and thriving.
Schodowski’s career left an indelible mark on late-night television, and his humor continues to resonate with fans who remember his legendary contributions to Cleveland’s entertainment history.
