Los Angeles Radio Legend “Jed The Fish” Passed Away At 69

Los Angeles radio icon Edwin Gould III—better known to music fans as Jed the Fish—has passed away at the age of 69. Known for his unmistakable voice, quirky personality, and love for alternative music, Jed left a lasting mark on the airwaves and everyone who heard him.

“At 6 AM on April 14, the world lost one of its most unique and brilliant personalities,” read a post on his official Instagram page. “Jed the Fish passed away in his beloved home, and the world will never be the same.” According to Variety, the beloved DJ died of lung cancer, a diagnosis he received only recently.

From Underdog to Tastemaker

Jed the Fish joined KROQ in 1978, back when the station was barely on the radar. But over the next 20 years, that changed—big time. KROQ became the station for punk, new wave, and alt rock in Southern California, and Jed was right at the heart of it. Artists like The Smiths, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, and the Pretenders got their first major U.S. airplay thanks to KROQ—and often, thanks to Jed.

His segment “Catch of the Day” became essential listening for music lovers who wanted to be the first to hear the next big thing. Known for his dry humor and infectious laugh, Jed wasn’t just another DJ—he was a personality you couldn’t forget.

He was twice named Billboard’s Modern Rock Personality of the Year (1997, 1999) and picked up Major Market Alternative Radio Personality honors in 1998 and 2000. He even landed on the cover of Reel Big Fish’s Turn the Radio Off album in 1996.

In 1995, Jed launched the national countdown show Out of Order, which he hosted until 2013, when Ted Stryker took over. After decades as KROQ’s afternoon voice, Jed stepped away from the station in 2012.

A Personal Tribute

This writer had the honor of working alongside Jed for more than 10 years. We’d spend hours going back and forth about Devo, David Bowie, Pearl Jam, Nine Inch Nails—you name it. Jed had opinions, and he wasn’t shy about sharing them. He wasn’t just a co-worker; he was a walking encyclopedia of cool, with a point of view like no one else. His place in rock history is secure, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations.

Musicians and Fans Say Goodbye

Tributes poured in from across the music world as the news of Jed’s passing spread. On Instagram, KROQ invited fans and musicians alike to share their memories and love.

“RIP JED! Thank you for everything,” wrote Papa Roach. Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea simply added, “bless his heart,” followed by a string of heart emojis. Filter’s Richard Patrick said, “He was awesome. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. He will be missed.” Pepper, the reggae rock band, shared, “Rest in paradise, brother! Your legacy will be carried in our hearts forever.”

The Offspring shared their own heartfelt message:

“This is such sad news. We were fans of Jed and his shows on KROQ long before we ever met him. Jed was very smart and funny with a very unique way of looking at the world. His sense of humor was insane in all the best ways. He is forever a local hero who will be greatly missed.”

Kimmel and Daly Remember the Man Behind the Mic

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, who got his start on KROQ’s Kevin and Bean morning show, remembered Jed’s kindness. He said:

“After my first time on the air—this man, who was already a legend—pulled me aside to reassure me and tell me I was doing great.
“His words meant the world to me then and they still do. There was no one like him, no matter how hard they tried.”

Carson Daly, another KROQ alum, called Jed “the maniacal magician of the alternative airwaves.” He shared a touching story:

“I remember as the new guy at KROQ I had to work on Thanksgiving once and I missed my family greatly. When all of a sudden, the studio doors burst open and there was Jed with a full homemade Thanksgiving dinner. He had driven from Pasadena and brought me leftovers… He hung out for an hour and it’s an hour I’ll never forget.”

Jed the Fish was a voice that shaped a scene, a mentor to many, and a friend to countless listeners. His legacy will keep playing on.