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AOL's "You've Got Mail" Voice Dies
Elwood Edwards, the voice of AOL's iconic "You've Got Mail," dies at 74.
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Elwood EdwardsKaren EdwardsSteve CaseJimmy Fallon
- Who was Elwood Edwards and what was his cause of death?
- Elwood Edwards, the voice behind AOL's iconic "You've Got Mail" greeting, passed away at age 74 after a long illness. His voice, recorded in his living room, became instantly recognizable to millions of AOL users.
- What is the cultural significance of Elwood Edwards' voice?
- Edwards' voice was a key part of the AOL user experience for years and became culturally relevant. His work was featured in a 2012 AOL YouTube video and even on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon."
- What was Elwood Edwards' career path before working in television?
- He started his career in radio during high school and later transitioned to television, working both as a booth announcer and radio host. Despite on-camera opportunities, Edwards preferred working behind the scenes.
- What was Elwood Edwards' profession before his voice became famous?
- Before his voice became famous, Edwards worked as a behind-the-scenes television professional at WKYC in Cleveland, Ohio. He held various roles, including camera operator and graphics operator.
- How did Elwood Edwards' voice become associated with AOL's "You've Got Mail"?
- Edwards' wife, Karen, who worked at Quantum Computer Services (which became AOL), suggested him for the job. He recorded four phrases on a cassette tape in 1989, unaware of the global impact they would have.