Television and Radio Personality. Best known as host of the popular music-oriented TV program "Shindig!" (1964 to 1966). The Oklahoma native's parents divorced during his early youth leaving his single mom (whom worked as a hairdresser) to raise him. His interest in broadcasting was sparked, when he took a course while in high school. This experience helped him land a job as a deejay for a Pittsburgh radio station. Four years after relocating to Los Angeles, O'Niell increased his popularity as a radio voice of rock 'n' roll music programs. This success led to his being tapped to host ABC's newly-developed rock music-formatted series "Shindig!". On September 16th, 1964 the series was launched with Sam Cooke (whom died only two months later). During the course of the show's run such contemporary artists as Sonny and Cher, the Righteous Brothers, the Everly Brothers and Glen Campbell were regular attractions. Additionally, the Rolling Stones and Beach Boys appeared in episodes and on a special occasion the program's crew flew to London to air a performance by The Beatles. After the series' cancellation in 1966, O'Neill endured the trauma of a divorce. He resorted to alcohol abuse and his life hit rock bottom. He would straighten himself out and resume his career as a disc jockey. He died of complications from diabetes.
Television and Radio Personality. Best known as host of the popular music-oriented TV program "Shindig!" (1964 to 1966). The Oklahoma native's parents divorced during his early youth leaving his single mom (whom worked as a hairdresser) to raise him. His interest in broadcasting was sparked, when he took a course while in high school. This experience helped him land a job as a deejay for a Pittsburgh radio station. Four years after relocating to Los Angeles, O'Niell increased his popularity as a radio voice of rock 'n' roll music programs. This success led to his being tapped to host ABC's newly-developed rock music-formatted series "Shindig!". On September 16th, 1964 the series was launched with Sam Cooke (whom died only two months later). During the course of the show's run such contemporary artists as Sonny and Cher, the Righteous Brothers, the Everly Brothers and Glen Campbell were regular attractions. Additionally, the Rolling Stones and Beach Boys appeared in episodes and on a special occasion the program's crew flew to London to air a performance by The Beatles. After the series' cancellation in 1966, O'Neill endured the trauma of a divorce. He resorted to alcohol abuse and his life hit rock bottom. He would straighten himself out and resume his career as a disc jockey. He died of complications from diabetes.
Bio by: C.S.
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