When President-elect Donald Trump officially takes over the White House in two weeks, his inaugural parade will be missing the legendary voice of 89-year-old Charlie Brotman, the announcer of every inauguration celebration since Dwight Eisenhower in 1957.
Brotman, who learned last week that he’ll be replaced by a younger, vocal Trump supporter, said he was “heartbroken” about the inauguration committee’s decision.
He will be listed as an announcer chairman emeritus and was offered a VIP seat. He is being replaced by a 58 year old Trump supporter and freelance announcer by the name of Steve Ray.
He is being very gracious about the change.
“I want [Ray] to do good,” Brotman told WJLA. “As opposed to, boy, I hope he fouls up so they say, ‘We want Charlie back.’ No. I don’t want that at all.”
“I’m saying, ‘You know what? Good luck, young man. I hope you do spectacular,’” he said.