Tejano Music Icon and TV Host Johnny Canales Dies Aged 77

Johnny Canales poses backstage at 2005 Billboard Latin Music Awards at the Miami Arena in Miami, Fla., on April 28, 2005. Paul Hawthorne/Getty Images

Tejano singer Johnny Canales, host of the popular syndicated television program “The Johnny Canales Show,” passed away at 77, his family disclosed on June 13. Although the cause of death remains unknown, his wife, Nora Canales, conveyed to the media that he died at 11:55 p.m. on Wednesday.

A heartfelt Facebook post confirmed his passing.

“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Johnny Canales,” the message on his Facebook page stated.

The post celebrated Mr. Canales’ multifaceted legacy: “He was 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 continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy he built.”

“The Johnny Canales Show” aired on the Univision Network from 1988 to 1996 before moving to Telemundo in 1997, where it enjoyed several more successful years. Mr. Canales played a pivotal role in introducing mainstream audiences to the iconic Selena Quintanilla. Selena, at just 13, made one of her first live television appearances on his show in the mid-’80s.

Often referred to as the “Queen of Tejano Music,” Selena’s popularity grew after she won the Tejano Music Award for Female Vocalist of the Year in 1987, a title she won nine consecutive times. Additionally, Selena’s album “Selena Live!” won a Grammy Award in 1994, making her the first Tejano artist to win a Grammy.

Despite facing significant health challenges in his later years following a major stroke in 2008, Mr. Canales made a return to television in 2014 with his wife, Nora, co-hosting a revamped music variety show, “El Show de Johnny and Nora Canales.”

Expressing their gratitude for the overwhelming support, the Canales family shared, “We thank you all for your kind words, love, and support during this difficult time. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers. Remember him not with sadness, but with the joy and passion he always brought into our lives.”

Remembering Johnny

President Joe Biden expressed his condolences in a post on X. “Johnny Canales was a Tejano music icon who filled Mexican-American homes with the sounds of faith and joy for decades. A husband, father, musician, and champion for Latino and military communities, Johnny left his mark. My heart is with his family and all those who he inspired,” the president wrote.

Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) posted a statement on X with a nod to Mr. Canales’ catchphrase, “‘You got it. Take it away!’ For decades, Johnny Canales introduced audiences across the United States and Latin America to Latino music superstars and helped to build Tejano music into a global phenomenon. Que descanse en paz, Johnny. Rest in peace.”

“Today, Johnny Canales, a true Tejano hero, has passed away. My heart is heavy as I remember growing up watching The Johnny Canales Show with my family,” wrote Corpus Christi Mayor Paulette Guajardo.