Casey Kasem's First Wife: Linda Myers's Story
What happens when the harmony of a seemingly idyllic Hollywood life is shattered by bitter accusations and familial strife? The story of Casey Kasem, the iconic voice of American Top 40, and his first wife, Linda Myers, is a poignant tale of love, loss, and a legacy shrouded in controversy. Their journey, once marked by shared dreams and the laughter of three children, ultimately became a battleground for truth and justice in the twilight of Kasem's life.
Casey Kasem, the man who counted down the hits for millions every week, met Linda Myers in 1972. Their connection was undeniable, and they soon embarked on a journey together that would span seven years and result in the births of Mike, Julie, and Kerri Kasem. These years coincided with the peak of Kasem's career, as his smooth voice and affable personality became synonymous with the American radio landscape. Linda, an actress known for her role in the film "Up the Academy," seemed to complement Kasem's vibrant life, but beneath the surface, tensions were brewing. Their separation in early 1979 and subsequent divorce later that year marked the beginning of a new chapter for both of them, a chapter that would eventually be marred by conflict and heartbreak.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Linda Myers Naylor (formerly Linda Myers Kasem) |
| Born | December 2, 1947 |
| Spouse(s) | Casey Kasem (m. 1972; div. 1979) |
| Children | Mike Kasem, Julie Kasem, Kerri Kasem |
| Profession | Actress |
| Known for | Marriage to Casey Kasem, Role in "Up the Academy" (1980) |
| Reference | IMDb |
Kasem's remarriage to Jean Thompson in 1980 brought a new family dynamic into the fold. While they welcomed a daughter, Liberty Jean Kasem, the relationship between Jean and Kasems children from his first marriage became increasingly strained. As Kasem's health declined, diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2007, the family feud intensified. Linda, along with her children, became increasingly concerned about Kasems well-being under Jean's care. Accusations of elder abuse and neglect arose, painting a grim picture of Kasem's final years. Lindas raw and emotional plea, describing Kasem as a screamer in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, offered a glimpse into the complexities of their past relationship, adding another layer to the unfolding drama.
The situation escalated into a very public and bitter legal battle. Jean Kasem allegedly restricted Kasem's children from his first marriage from visiting their ailing father, a claim that sparked a protest outside the Kasem residence on October 1, 2013. The protest, attended by Mike, Julie, and Kerri, along with friends, colleagues, and even Kasem's brother, Mouner, underscored the deep divide that had formed within the family. The fight continued even after Kasem's death in Gig Harbor, Washington, on June 15, 2014. The circumstances surrounding his final days, including the transport of his body to Montreal, further fueled the controversy and added to the confusion surrounding his passing.
The wrongful death lawsuit filed by Kasem's children against Jean in November 2015 became the focal point of this ongoing family saga. The suit alleged elder abuse and neglect, claiming that Jean's actions contributed to Kasem's deteriorating health and ultimately his death. Jean, in turn, filed a counter-suit, further entangling the legal proceedings. The complexities of the case, the accusations and counter-accusations, played out in the public eye, turning a private family matter into a media spectacle.
While the legal battles raged, the emotional toll on the family was undeniable. Kerri Kasem, particularly outspoken about her father's situation and the alleged abuse, became an advocate for elder rights. Her public pronouncements and unwavering commitment to justice for her father highlighted the deep love and concern she held for him. The question of Kasem's $80 million net worth further complicated matters, although his children insisted that their concern was solely for their fathers well-being and not his fortune.
The story of Casey Kasem and Linda Myers is a cautionary tale about the fragility of relationships and the devastating consequences of family discord. While Kasem's legacy as a beloved radio icon remains, it is forever intertwined with the turbulent final chapter of his life and the bitter legal battles that followed. The enduring image of Linda Myers, not just as an actress or Kasem's first wife, but as a mother fighting for her children and the memory of their father, serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of such conflicts.
The story continues to resonate today, a testament to the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring power of love and loss. The legal battles may have concluded, but the emotional scars remain, a lasting reminder of the turbulent years that overshadowed the once harmonious life of Casey Kasem and Linda Myers.
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