Ruth Seymour Obituary

Ruth Seymour, the esteemed former General Manager of KCRW and a trailblazer in the world of public radio, peacefully passed away at her Santa Monica home on Friday at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness.

Born Ruth Epstein in the Bronx in 1935, Seymour’s life was a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unshakable belief in the transformative power of public radio.

A true pioneer, Seymour’s journey to KCRW was unconventional, shaped by diverse experiences as a journalist, film executive, and cultural center manager in Paris.

In 1977, she discovered her calling at KCRW, quickly recognizing its potential to become a cultural beacon. Her 32-year tenure as General Manager transformed the station into a cultural powerhouse.

Seymour’s vision revolutionized KCRW, turning it from a college station into a platform for diverse voices and genres. Iconic programs like “Morning Becomes Eclectic” and “Left, Right & Center” flourished under her leadership. Beyond programming, Seymour fostered a fearless and creative environment, attracting brilliant minds in radio, TV, and music.

Her legacy extends nationally, challenging conventions and proving that public radio can be both intellectually stimulating and entertaining.

Ruth Seymour’s impact lives on in the airwaves of KCRW and the hearts of those she inspired—a force of nature, a visionary, and a mentor whose dedication to the power of radio will resonate for generations.

A public memorial service to celebrate her life is being planned, and details will be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Ruth Seymour Scholarship Fund at KCRW, supporting aspiring talent in public radio, are encouraged.