‘Goodness Gracious!’: Tennessee’s John Wilkerson Makes History with Surprise Induction into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame
In a moment that perfectly captured the humility and passion he’s brought to Tennessee airwaves for decades, legendary broadcaster John Wilkerson was left speechless—well, almost—when he learned of his induction into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame live on air. The longtime Voice of the Vols was hosting his regular Knoxville sports show when the news broke. His stunned reaction? A heartfelt, “Goodness gracious!”
But the phrase didn’t just mark a touching moment—it marked history.
Wilkerson’s selection is not only a testament to his decades of excellence behind the microphone but also a milestone in Tennessee broadcasting. As one of the few broadcasters to be informed of his induction during a live broadcast, Wilkerson made Hall of Fame history in a fashion as unforgettable as his calls on game day.
A Voice That Became a Staple
For over 30 years, John Wilkerson has been more than just a sports announcer—he’s been a comforting and electric presence for Tennessee fans. Whether covering high school football on Friday nights, previewing college matchups, or passionately narrating the highs and lows of the Tennessee Volunteers, Wilkerson’s voice has become part of the state’s cultural fabric.
Listeners across the region have come to rely on his encyclopedic knowledge of sports, his calm but commanding tone, and his uncanny ability to make every moment—no
