Don Imus

The radio talk show host Don Imus, possibly the grandfather shock jock, began his talk show Imus in the Morning in the 1970s, gaining steam in the 90s Democratic era. Known for off color humor, public feuds (most notoriously with fellow shock jock Howard Stern), and flamboyant law suits, Imus finally hit a wall when he made egregious comments...more

The radio talk show host Don Imus, possibly the grandfather shock jock, began his talk show Imus in the Morning in the 1970s, gaining steam in the 90s Democratic era. Known for off color humor, public feuds (most notoriously with fellow shock jock Howard Stern), and flamboyant law suits, Imus finally hit a wall when he made egregious comments about the Rutgers women's basketball team. Within ten days, after an on-air apology and media hubbub, Imus in the Morning was history.

Given that Imus was born in 1940 and represents a voice that was more prevalent 30 years ago, it's possible that the Imus era is simply over. Is this the beginning of the end of the shock jock era? Does it suggest a climate finally shifting? Or is it an isolated case of going too far?

On the other hand, Imus is a survivor. A reinvented Imus may return (sooner than anyone thinks) to take the lime light in whole new ways. Watch for it here -- and meanwhile, share your ideas and opinions on this legendary lighting rod.