Big Boy: A Hip Hop Odyssey | THE THREAD Documentary Series

Kurt "Big Boy" Alexander, a national radio star for more than thirty years, reveals some hard-learned lessons in this episode of The Thread. He shares the poignant revelation that at only ten years old, his mother and seven siblings were a family of homeless nomads moving from motel to motel. Alexander’s compelling story is one of overcoming struggles with massive weight (“I was a size 8x”), drug dealing and the underlying events that fueled those behaviors. His story, while unique, is eminently relatable to anyone who has ever struggled with adversity. He shares his journey with thoughtful candor and warmth. Kurt Alexander’s deeply personal experiences affirm the importance of prioritizing health and family throughout your life.
Radio Personality Big Boy was born Kurt Alexander in Chicago, the man who became famous as the literally larger-than-life Big Boy was working as a 400-pound bodyguard for hip-hop group The Pharcyde when he began his radio career in 1994 at KPWR/Los Angeles. His comedic and conversational skills led to success with overnight and afternoon shows before KPWR asked him to host the station’s morning show in 1997.The result was Big Boy’s Neighborhood, a show that combined hip-hop music, celebrity guests, Hollywood gossip and prank phone calls (performed by alter ego Luther Luffeigh). With the help of a supporting cast that over the years has included Hollywood reporter Luscious Liz Hernandez, “stuntman” Louie G and entertainment correspondent Natalia Perez, Big Boy’s Neighborhood quickly enjoyed huge success among younger urban listeners. The success of the morning show led to the 2006 creation of Big Boy’s Hip Hop Spot, a weekend show focusing on hip hop and Hollywood news. After a decade on the air in Los Angeles, ABC Radio Network began syndicating Big Boy’s daily and weekend shows nationwide in 2007. At its peak, Big Boy’s programs were heard in 35 major markets. In 2015, Big Boy moved his show to KRRL/Los Angeles. In that same year he was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame. The National Association of Broadcasters has also recognized Big Boy’s exceptional talent with the Marconi Award, a very rare three times. Big Boy is married to Victoria Alexander; they have 2 children.
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Chapter Markers:
00:00 - Opening
00:48 - Childhood
02:58 - Coping with Food and Music
05:52 - Getting into Hip Hop
07:43 - MC Scratch to Big Boy
13:59 - Selling Drugs and Conscience
18:26 - The Turning Point
26:55 - Will Smith’s Weight Loss Challenge
Kurt “Big Boy” Alexander, Radio Host
Interviewed By: Ari Fishman
Interview Date: September 1, 2023
© Kunhardt Film Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
#BigBoy #lifestories

[@barbking286]

Such an enjoyable interview. In so many ways Kurt/We actually had so much MORE than we do today by way of a sense of family, imagination & ingenuity. The lack of 'Stuff' made what He/We had just that much sweeter. Stay true to the boy & all those memories.

[@rodbrown5756]

✊🏽

[@NgUSPerfect-zr5cu]

I met him as a kid great guy