Submitted by Larry MacInnis, writer and director of The CHUM-FM Morning Show with Roger, Rick & Marilyn from 1985 to 2007. He is currently Creative Director of The Pro Bono Group.
“It would have been easier if I’d had brothers.”
So ends a seminal 1990s TV commercial for The CHUM-FM Morning Show with Roger, Rick & Marilyn.
The young woman delivering the line, looking gorgeous and possessing perfect comic timing, is the remarkable Marilyn Denis.
That commercial is still funny all these years later because Marilyn has never needed help holding her own with Roger Ashby, Rick Hodge or anyone else.
Undoubtedly, some of that is due to her upbringing. One of four daughters born to Jim and Shirley Denis, Marilyn was raised to be confident, decent and kind. She was blessed with good parents.
But so much else of what makes Marilyn special seems to just come naturally. Perhaps angels smile on her because she makes them laugh.
During my career as a Creative Director and comedy writer, I have worked with many of the most talented people in broadcasting. Marilyn is the best ad-libber I have ever known. No one has a quicker wit. And nobody connects in a more personal and genuine way with audiences.
I have watched her talk to the smallest of children and to the biggest of celebrities and put each of them equally at ease.
And for 21 years, I woke up happy every weekday morning knowing I would be sitting beside her and enjoying three hours in her dazzling company.
Today is the day Marilyn Denis will do her final radio show. The decision to leave is hers alone. She is going on her own terms on the day of her choosing. She is managing everything perfectly with grace and good humour as she always does.
And Marilyn Denis is being succeeded at CHUM by two talented young women who grew up inspired by her and guided by her example.
Perfect, isn’t it?
