In memory of the Channel 11 icon, and longtime host of "Chiller Theater," join us for a special one-night only screening of NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD as we celebrate the life of Chilly Billy Cardille. Almost 9 years ago to this day, (http://www.chillertheatermemories.com/HollywoodTheater.html) we hosted Bill, his daughter Lori, and Steve Luncinski for back-to-back screenings of 'Dawn of the Dead' and 'Night of the Living Dead.' introduced by Chilly Billy himself. After a long battle with cancer, Bill Cardille passed away on July 21st of this year.
Doors will open around 9:00PM with some Chiller Theater footage on the big screen followed by the screening of 'Night of the Living Dead' at 10:00PM, introduced by Russ Streiner. Half of the ticket proceeds from the screening will be donated to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in honor of Chilly Billy. Additional event details, special guests, and more information available soon!
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William Robert Cardille, Chilly Billy to us, was one of the original six announcers at what was then known as WIIC-Channel 11 when the station went on the air on Labor Day 1957.
Cardille, the third of nine children of the late William and Frances Cardille, grew up in Sharon, PA., and attended classes at what is now known as Indiana University of Pennsylvania before getting his first job in television in Erie, Pa., where he was best known as the weatherman and host of a popular children's program.
He hosted many shows in the early years at Channel 11 such as "Luncheon at the Ones," "Twixt, Twelve and Twenty," "Dance Party," and most famously, "Studio Wrestling," where he formed lasting friendships with Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Famer Pie Traynor, who did live commercials for American Heating Co., and wrestler Bruno Sammartino.
Cardille became the host of Chiller Theater on Sept. 19, 1964, and soon was dubbed "Chilly Billy" by the son of sportscaster Red Donley. Chiller Theater is now only a memory but whenever people think of Bill Cardille, they will always think of "Chilly Billy". During Chiller's long run, Cardille also hosted a number of other shows at the station such as "Son of Chiller," the "Money Movie," and live stock-car races.
Cardille's last show on Chiller Theater was Dec. 31, 1983. He went on to host a nightly bingo program and spent a number of years as the morning weatherman at Channel 11, which by then had changed its call letters to WPXI.
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