Harry Teinowitz (1960-2025)
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Actor, playwright and sports radio host Harry Teinowitz passed away on July 15 at the age of 64. In 2021, Harry co-wrote with his friend and radio partner Spike Manton the autobiographical play WHEN HARRY MET REHAB, which ran at The Greenhouse Theater Center and then off-Broadway. The play reflected Harry’s time in rehab following a DUI and his personal journey through addiction and recovery. He also had small roles in several movies, including RISKY BUSINESS, THE PACKAGE, RETURN TO ME and UP THE ACADEMY, along with some TV appearances.
On radio, Harry co-hosted “The Harry & Spike Show” on WMVP and later became a fixture on ESPN 1000’s “Mac, Jurko, and Harry” (aka “The Afternoon Saloon”) from 2001 to 2009. He also appeared on WLUP-FM (97.9) with Jonathon Brandmeier and Danny Bonaduce, and WGN-AM (720), as well as having his own fantasy football show, “Fantasy Football Island,” on ESPN 1000. In the early 1990s, Harry and Spike Manton started “Funny Money,” an annual comedy benefit for the Greater Chicago Council of the National Committee for the Prevention of Child Abuse. A passionate fan of all Chicago teams—especially the Cubs—Harry brought humor, heart, and authenticity to the airwaves for more than two decades. Born on October 15, 1960 in Glencoe to Philip and Lois Teinowitz, Harry graduated from New Trier High School East, attended the University of Kansas and then earned his degree in Theatre from Columbia College Chicago. He grew up around horse racing thanks to his father, Philip, who owned four horses that ran in the Kentucky Derby. Shortly after graduating from college, Harry launched a career in comedy and theater. A talented stand-up comedian, he performed across the country before becoming one of Chicago’s most well-known sports radio voices. Survivors include his children Lucy and Reggie Teinowitz; sister Nancy (Scott Barker) Teinowitz; brothers Danny Teinowitz and Billy Teinowitz; niece Cynthia Jane Teinowitz Jones; and nephew Elijah Teinowitz Barker. Per his family — “Harry was a liver transplant survivor, a devoted Bruce Springsteen fan, a natural storyteller, and a deeply kind soul who made everyone feel like the most important person in the room. He will be remembered for his humor, generosity, and the joy he brought to so many.” |