Michael Notaro, Jr.

Michael "Marino" Notaro

Michael "Marino" Notaro, a celebrated radio programmer, consultant, mentor, and longtime champion of great broadcasting, passed away on July 16, 2026, at the age of 60 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Leslie Stidham; stepdaughter, Jennifer Orwig; brother, Anthony Notaro; and sisters, Anna Notaro and Rosemary Notaro. He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael Notaro Sr. and Antonia "Nee" Giammarino, and his sister, Phyllis Notaro.

A lifelong lover of radio, Mike began his broadcasting career as an on-air personality in 1988 before discovering his true calling behind the scenes as a programmer. Over nearly four decades, he became one of the industry's most respected and influential programming minds, helping shape the sound of radio stations across the country, including his celebrated tenure as OM/PD at Hot 92.3 KHHT in Los Angeles.

Widely recognized as a pioneer of the Rhythmic AC format and an expert in Urban AC and Modern AC/Adult Top 40 programming, Mike built winning brands, developed exceptional talent, and earned the respect of broadcasters nationwide. For the past 25 years, he founded and operated GotRooster and AmeriCountry, syndicated morning show prep services used by radio stations throughout the United States. He also consulted numerous R&B and Rhythmic Oldies stations, helping many achieve ratings success.

Mike was beloved throughout the broadcasting industry as a mentor, trusted colleague, and friend whose influence helped shape the careers of countless programmers and personalities.

Away from the studio, Mike was an avid New York Jets fan, an animal lover, and harbored a secret guilty pleasure for T. rex, Jurassic Park, Godzilla, and King Kong. His favorite hobbies were chicken parmesan and anything chocolate.

Known for his razor-sharp wit and playful sarcasm, Mike had a remarkable ability to make people laugh and feel at ease. Above all, he treasured his family, his friends, and the relationships he built throughout his life.

Mike is now at peace with his Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ, no doubt still directing on-air talent, and on special occasions grabbing the microphone to wake up Heaven with a smile.

Michael "Marino" Notaro leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of friendship, mentorship, innovation, and excellence in broadcasting. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless people whose lives and careers were enriched by knowing him. 

A Celebration of Mike's Life:  Friday, July 31, 2026, 12:00 p.m.  |  Church of the Hills, Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills  |  6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Rest in peace, Mike. Your voice, your wisdom, your laughter, and your legacy will never be forgotten.