‘He Was The Quintessential Broadcaster’
This writer can recall working at the Baltimore AFRO-American Newspaper during the mid-1990s when an energetic, enthusiastic, young writer fresh from Virginia came through the doors of the Editorial Department. His name was Anthony McCarthy, and he was introduced to the staff as one of the publication’s newest reporters.
The gifted journalist would go on to make an indelible mark in print journalism, politics, radio, and other arenas, working for the likes of the late Congressman Elijah Cummings and former Baltimore Mayors Sheila Dixon, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, and Catherine Pugh.
A man of many talents whose infectious laughter and warm personality made everyone feel like they were his best friend, McCarthy lost a lengthy battle with kidney disease on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at the age of 57. Throughout the city and beyond, McCarthy was remembered as a man who helped to shape Baltimore’s political landscape while also using his quick wit, humor, and natural communication abilities to help countless people tell their stories through radio, print, and other media.
In addition to working at The AFRO-American Newspaper as a staff writer, he also served as its Editor-in-Chief from 2001 until 2003. McCarthy’s publishing experience also included serving as Associate Publisher of The Baltimore Times.
“Anthony was very talented,” said Baltimore Times founder Joy Bramble. “He was well-liked and was always able to secure good interviews, which helped contribute to the paper’s success. He was full of innovative ideas and great at writing editorials. He made an indelible mark and will be missed. His passing will leave a huge void.”
Baltimore Times Editor Dena Wane echoed Bramble’s sentiments.
“Anthony was a gifted writer and speaker who brought his many talents to our publication,” said Wane. “I had the pleasure of working with him personally during his tenure at the paper. He was an innovative, out-of-the-box thinker who was not only creative but had such a charismatic, welcoming personality. I believe that’s why he achieved a great deal of success in so many circles. He was a people person.”
McCarthy’s impressive career included serving as Communications Director for the late Congressman Elijah Cummings, and as spokesperson for Mayors Dixon, Rawlings-Blake, and Pugh. A political strategist, he also worked with the likes of Congressman Kweisi Mfume, and former Baltimore Mayor and Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley. McCarthy also served as former mayoral candidate Thiruvendran “Thiru” Vignarajah’s Communications Director during his campaign.
A popular fixture on the airwaves who didn’t shy away from discussing tough issues, McCarthy hosted “The Anthony McCarthy Show” on WEAA 88.9 FM. His radio career also included taking to the airwaves to discuss current events on “The Weekly News Roundup With Anthony McCarthy” on WYPR 88.1.
“Anthony McCarthy was more than a friend. He was a mentor, a supporter, and a true champion for Baltimore,” said Senator Cory V. McCray. “He was one of the first people to give me the opportunity to be on the radio by inviting me to join his talk show. That experience helped me understand the power of my voice to serve my city, support workers, and uplift young scholars.”
McCray, who represents Baltimore’s 45th District added, “Anthony believed in me — not just once, but every time I stepped forward to serve, backing me in every office I’ve ever run for. That’s one of the most powerful things you can do for young people — to believe in them. His unwavering belief, his brilliance as a communicator, and his deep love for this city leave a legacy that will be felt for generations. Baltimore is better because of him, and his presence will be profoundly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone whose life he touched.”
An ordained minister, McCarthy was born in Virginia but made Maryland his permanent home after his arrival in the 1990s. It didn’t take long after his arrival to make his presence felt, regularly standing in front of the news cameras to address the press on behalf of the politicians for whom he worked or quietly worked behind the scenes writing speeches, press releases and other materials. McCarthy attended Eastern Mennonite University and Howard University.
“He was the quintessential broadcaster,” said Kim Chase, who worked at WEAA 88.9 FM for 11 years. “Anthony and I met in the late 1990s through the Association of Black Media Workers. He had the gift of encouragement, which I believe comes from God. Anthony was always kind and gracious in conversation.”
Chase, who now works for WBJC Radio, reflected on “The Anthony McCarthy Show,” which was recognized in 2015 as Baltimore Magazine’s Best Talk Show.
“Anthony possessed exceptional broadcasting skills,” said Chase. “He knew just the right questions to ask and how to engage guests effectively, even when dealing with difficult callers. What many people didn’t know was that he also had great culinary skills. He could really cook, and I would call him ‘The Chef.’ He had so many talents and truly made an impact on the lives of those he touched.”
