Anthony Cumia, born on April 26, 1961, is a prominent American radio personality, podcaster, and broadcaster. Best known as the co-host of the “Opie and Anthony” radio show alongside Gregg “Opie” Hughes, Cumia has left an indelible mark on the world of radio.
Despite facing professional ups and downs, his career spans several successful ventures, including his own show, “The Anthony Cumia Show,” and the founding of Compound Media. Beyond his professional life, Cumia’s personal journey has seen its share of challenges, with a notable legal incident in 2015. Let’s delve into the details of Anthony Cumia’s life and career.
| Full Name | Anthony Cumia |
| Date of Birth | April 26, 1961 |
| Marital Status | Divorced (from Jennifer Cumia in 2002) |
| State of Origin | New York |
| Birthplace | Flushing, Queens, New York, USA |
| Occupation | Radio Personality, Podcaster, Broadcaster |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma Mater | Elwood-John H. Glenn High School (Elwood, New York) |
Early Life
Anthony Cumia was born on April 26, 1961, in Flushing, Queens, New York. Raised in an Italian-American family, he navigated his youth with an elder brother, Joe, and a younger sister, Dawn. Cumia’s formative years included attending Timber Point Elementary School in East Islip and later Elwood-John H. Glenn High School in Elwood. His interest in radio sparked during this period, inspired by influential figures like Howard Stern and Don Imus.
Early Career And Meeting Opie
Cumia’s journey into the radio world began when he entered an O. J. Simpson song parody contest on Opie’s “Nighttime Attitude” show. The chemistry between Cumia and Opie flourished, leading to collaborations on comedy bits for the station’s morning show. This marked the beginning of a significant partnership.
Opie And Anthony Era (1995–2014)
In March 1995, Cumia and Opie launched the “Opie and Anthony” show at WAAF in Boston, Massachusetts, before moving to WNEW in New York City in June 1998. The show became a top 10 afternoon drive program and achieved national syndication. The addition of comedian Jim Norton as co-host in 2001 further solidified its success. Despite controversies, including a temporary cancellation in 2002, the show continued to thrive on XM Satellite Radio.
Post Opie And Anthony
In 2014, Cumia faced a significant career shift when he was fired by SiriusXM Radio for a series of racially charged tweets. Undeterred, he launched “The Anthony Cumia Show” on Compound Media, showcasing his ability to adapt and continue entertaining audiences.
Legal Troubles And Rehabilitation
Anthony Cumia’s personal life took a tumultuous turn in December 2015 when he was arrested on charges of strangulation, assault, criminal mischief, and unlawful imprisonment during an argument with his then-girlfriend Danielle Brand. Following a guilty plea in June 2016, Cumia spent time in a rehabilitation facility in Florida.
Compound Media And Current Ventures
Post-legal challenges, Cumia continued to build his media empire. Compound Media expanded its programming, featuring shows like “The Artie and Anthony Show.” Cumia also authored a book titled “Permanently Suspended: The Rise and Fall… and Rise Again of Radio’s Most Notorious Shock Jock,” released in 2018.
Personal Life And Relationships
Anthony Cumia’s personal life includes a marriage to Jennifer Cumia, which ended in divorce in 2002. He faced public scrutiny for his subsequent relationships, notably with “Lobster Girl” Melinda and Jill Nicolini. Cumia currently resides in South Carolina, having relocated from his longtime home in Roslyn Heights, New York.
