Tejano music legend Johnny Canales, widely known for hosting “The Johnny Canales Show,” has died at 77, his family announced Thursday.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Johnny Canales,” read a post on his Facebook page. No cause of death was provided.
The post described him as “more than just a beloved husband, father, TV host, musician, and entertainer; he was a beacon of hope and joy for countless people. His infectious charisma and dedication to promoting Latino music and culture left a significant mark on the world. Johnny’s spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy he built.”
Canales’ wife, Nora Canales, shared a video last May reporting that he was in poor health, stating, “He is OK, he is stable.”
Canales was credited with introducing Selena Quintanilla to mainstream audiences. She made one of her first live TV appearances on his show in the mid-80s.
According to Billboard, “The Johnny Canales Show” aired on Univision Network from 1988 to 1996, reaching thousands of Mexican households in the United States. The show then moved to Telemundo in 1997, where it aired for several more years.
Many remember Canales for his enthusiastic catchphrase, “You got it! Take it away!”
Since the announcement of his death, fans have flooded his Facebook page with memories and condolences to the Tejano legend.
Mexican singer, composer, and accordion player Ramón Ayala also posted on his Instagram, describing Canales as a pioneer who discovered new artists and helped them achieve international fame.
“His Program was seen by thousands of people throughout the United States and Northern Mexico, uniting our Latin brothers living in the United States, always defending just causes and our immigrants.” Ayala posted.
