Judy Markey, co-host of the groundbreaking WGN radio show 'The Kathy and Judy Show' in Chicago, died Sept. 11 at 82 in Switzerland. She was known for her vivacious chemistry with Kathy O'Malley, discussing daily life, sex, and families over 20 years. Markey first gained recognition in the 1980s as a nationally syndicated columnist for The Chicago Sun-Times, likened to Erma Bombeck for her droll focus on mundane subjects.
The duo, called "the Girlfriends," pioneered a casual, improvisational style that resonated with female listeners and earned them Gracie Awards in 2006 and 2008. Their segments like "Sex Thursday" and "Speak Your Piece" created deep audience connections. Markey also bravely addressed serious issues, such as abortion, during a 1990s segment that received calls from women sharing their experiences.
She chose voluntary assisted death after being diagnosed with a degenerative neurological disease.
Source: New York Times Business · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing