NPR has named Alzo Slade as the new judge and scorekeeper for “Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!,” making him only the third person to hold the position in the show’s 29-year history. Slade officially begins the role this weekend during a broadcast from Austin, Texas, succeeding legendary broadcaster Bill Kurtis, who retired from the position at the end of May.
Quick Facts
- Slade is a Peabody and three-time Emmy award-winning journalist and storyteller.
- Carl Kasell created the judge and scorekeeper role in 1998; Bill Kurtis held it from 2015 until May 2026.
- Before this appointment, Slade appeared frequently as a panelist and occasionally as a guest judge and scorekeeper on the show.
- His diverse background includes stand-up comedy, concert photography for Prince, and creating “Grits and Biscuits,” a Southern hip-hop dance party.
Slade has been a familiar voice on the show since early 2022, when he began making frequent appearances as a panelist. In a statement, he acknowledged the significance of the role while expressing respect for his predecessor. “Joining ‘Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!’ as co-host, judge and scorekeeper feels equal parts honor and elaborate hoax or clerical error,” Slade said, adding that “much love and respect to Bill Kurtis. This guy is amazing. Stepping into anything connected to that legendary voice is a bit like following a jazz legend at an open mic.”
Show host Peter Sagal praised Slade’s personality and versatility, suggesting his presence will bring a distinct dynamic to the program. “If Bill Kurtis has the voice of the dad you always wished you had, Alzo’s is the voice of the friend you always wanted,” Sagal said. “He’s funny, he’s kind, he’s ridiculously smart, and knows just how to cut you down to size when you need it.”
Alzo Slade named judge and scorekeeper for ‘Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!’
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To mark Slade’s debut in the role, the show will feature a special segment in which a caller plays a game centered on Slade’s eclectic career and life experiences. Beyond his journalism credentials, Slade’s resume includes winning the Mr. Prairie View A&M pageant and working as a concert photographer for Prince, reflecting a career that spans comedy, storytelling, and broadcasting.
Sources
- NPR — Official announcement of Alzo Slade as new judge and scorekeeper, his background, and quotes from Slade and host Peter Sagal.
- Insideradio.com — Details on Slade succeeding Bill Kurtis, the 29-year history of the position, and additional context on Slade’s accomplishments and role transition.
