Renowned Canadian musician Tommy Hunter, known as “Canada’s Country Gentleman,” has passed away at the age of 89. The singer and guitarist died from natural causes, as confirmed by entertainment promoter Brian Edwards to CBC News.
Born in London, Ontario, on March 20, 1937, Hunter began his entertainment career early on by taking guitar lessons at nine years old. This led to him performing at various venues, including churches and radio shows. In 1956, he joined CBC’s Country Hoedown as a rhythm guitarist before becoming the host of The Tommy Hunter Show, which started as a radio program before transitioning to television and running for 27 years until 1992.
His show was a major success in the Canadian and North American music scene, attracting notable artists like Gordon Lightfoot, Loretta Lynn, Anne Murray, and Johnny Cash. Hunter’s influence also helped launch the careers of future stars such as Garth Brooks and a young Shania Twain, who was known as Ellie Twain at the time.
Larry Mercey of the Mercey Brothers credited much of his group’s success to appearances on The Tommy Hunter Show, highlighting Hunter’s significant impact on the country music industry. Hunter continued to tour across Canada with his band, The Travellin’ Men, even after his TV show ended in 1992.
Despite feeling devastated when his show was canceled, Hunter continued performing until his 75th birthday in 2012, concluding his professional career with a farewell tour that culminated in his hometown. Known for his showmanship and kindness to fans, Hunter left a lasting legacy in Canadian country music, earning three Juno awards, a Gemini award, induction into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 1984, and being made a member of the Order of Canada in 1986.
He is survived by three children, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Hunter’s contributions to Canadian music and entertainment will be remembered by many across the country.
