Big Joe Henry Inducted into New Jersey Hall of Fame

The long-time radio host earned recognition for his broadcasting career and charitable contributions to the state.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Awards

Bold vector editorial illustration of a vintage radio microphone with a laurel leaf, symbolizing regional broadcasting and civic achievement. — Long-time radio host Big Joe Henry has been inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in recognition of his decades-long broadcast career and charitable contributions to the state. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Long-time radio personality Big Joe Henry has been inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. The honor follows his multi-decade run as a top-rated host on New Jersey 101.5.

Why it matters

The induction recognizes Henry not only for his broadcast success but also for his extensive commitment to local charity and his role in supporting the arts community.

Henry has maintained the number one rating on his radio show for more than 25 years. He is also the cofounder and executive director of the Rock and Roll Music Fund.

The players

Big Joe Henry

He is a long-time radio host on New Jersey 101.5 and a prominent figure in state philanthropic efforts.

Danny DeVito

He is an acclaimed actor and filmmaker who served as the host for the 2026 induction ceremony.

SZA

She is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter who was part of the 2026 New Jersey Hall of Fame induction class.

Eddie Brigati

He is a musician best known as a member of The Rascals and was included in the 2026 Hall of Fame class.

Christine Todd Whitman

She is a former Governor of New Jersey who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2026.

The details

Henry was welcomed into the 2026 class alongside other notable figures including SZA, Eddie Brigati, and Christine Todd Whitman. The induction ceremony for the new class was hosted by actor Danny DeVito.

Big Joe Henry started his radio show in 1997.
He published a best-selling cookbook in 2008.
Henry hosted the Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2017.
He was inducted into the Hall of Fame on September 24, 2026.

Culture Shift

The 2026 ceremony mirrors the precedent set by the 2017 New Jersey Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which was also hosted by Big Joe Henry. This year marks a significant shift as the former master of ceremonies transitioned into an inductee, reflecting his long-term impact on the state.

Residents can view the legacy of the 2026 inductees through the public exhibits maintained by the Hall of Fame. This recognition reinforces the ongoing support for local arts and charitable organizations that Henry has championed for decades.

The takeaway

Henry's induction highlights the intersection between local media figures and community advocacy. His career demonstrates that long-term professional consistency in radio can serve as a powerful platform for supporting local non-profit causes.