Howard Remembers Horror Icon John Zacherle, Dead at 98

“Shock Theater” Photo: WCAU

Horror icon and longtime broadcaster John Zacherle died in New York City on Thursday at the age of 98.

Nicknamed the “Cool Ghoul” and a former guest on the Stern Show, Zacherle introduced horror films and parodied the genre on “Shock Theater” in the late ’50s and early ’60s. On Monday morning, Howard remembered fondly growing up and watching Zacherle on television.

“Rest in peace,” Howard said. “You are the best part of my childhood, you really are.”

After many years working at New York and Philadelphia TV stations, Zacherle (also known as Zacherley) transitioned to radio, working at WPLJ-FM as a morning host and late-night DJ for a decade. Zacherle also appeared in various horror-themed books, comics, and films throughout his career, including horror comedies “Brain Damage” and “Frankenhooker.” Howard recalled having Zacherle on the Stern Show as a guest in 1982 and 1992. The two also briefly worked together at K-Rock.

“He was a lot older than the other DJs but he was Zacherle so he was cool,” Howard said.

Zacherle is survived by his nieces Diane Hanson, Linda Marston, and Bonnie Zacherle, creator of the My Little Pony toy line.

Many fans are already mourning Zacherle’s passing on social media, including celebrated horror host Elvira:

R.I.P John Zacherle #zacherley “The Cool Ghoul” https://t.co/DsoIskDtyn pic.twitter.com/uCwsUzbJ3B

— Elvira (@TheRealElvira) October 28, 2016

Click here for more about his life.