Tejano Television Icon Johnny Canales Passes Away at 81

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – The world of Tejano music mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Johnny Canales, the beloved television host and retired Tejano singer, passed away at the age of 81. The news was announced on the official El Show de Johnny y Nora Canales Show Facebook page on Thursday.

“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Johnny Canales,” the statement read. “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 large mark on the world.”

Canales had been dealing with health complications since suffering a stroke in 2008. News of Canales being “gravely sick” made headlines last month, but his family reassured fans about his health in a video just a few days later.

Johnny Canales was a retired Tejano singer and the former host of the popular television show The Johnny Canales Show. He is credited with giving exposure to many Tejano artists, including one of the first live performances of a teenage Selena. It was during this time that Johnny Canales became known as the Mexican American Dick Clark.

In the early 1980s, his show was syndicated in many South Texas television markets enabling him to build a fan base that endures to this day. In 1988, The Johnny Canales Show was picked up by Univision and broadcast internationally until 1995. In the Tejano scene and among Spanish-speaking households, Canales’ show was known as the show where stars were born.

A documentary about Canales, titled Take It Away: The Rise and Fall of Tejano Hollywood, is currently in post-production. This film is expected to shed light on Canales’ significant contributions to the Tejano music scene and his enduring legacy.

Johnny Canales’ legacy in the Tejano music scene remains strong. His contributions to the industry have paved the way for many artists, and his enduring popularity is a testament to his talent and charisma.

“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,” the family’s statement concluded.

Our thoughts are with the family and fans of Canales during this difficult time. His contributions to Tejano music will never be forgotten.

Follow Tejano Nation on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our Spotify playlists and iHeartRadio podcast.

---

---