Hugo Straney: The voice of the Irish community in Toronto
Hugo Straney is better known as “the voice of the Irish community” in Canada. For more than 40 years, he has been an entertainer, MC, and radio show host in Toronto, making a career interviewing Irish people about their stories for his radio show, The Hugo Straney Show, on CHIN Radio.
Originally from Belfast in Northern Ireland, Straney left for Canada in 1974 when he was just 17. He has remained extremely connected to Ireland from across the Atlantic, and is a very active member of the Irish diaspora and community groups in Canada.
He will soon broadcast the 2000th episode of his radio show – ahead of this milestone, we caught up with him to learn more about his journey in Canada.
Where did you grow up and how did you find yourself in Toronto?
“I grew up in West Belfast, born in an area called The Pound Loney, which was later demolished. I also and lived in the Divis Flats. During the Troubles, my late sister Lily sponsored me to come to Canada.”
How did you get started in radio?
“Brian Kearney, a member of the Irish community in Toronto, was an original member of the CHIN crew that started a multicultural radio station in 1964. I took over from Brian in 1988. Many people were after the show, but Brian and his wife chose me.”
The Hugo Straney show has been on air since the beginning of Chin Radio. How has your show evolved over time?
“Brian’s show, which was an hour long, was mostly pre-recorded and focused on requested songs. I went ‘live’ from the first show and turned it into a magazine type format with news and live sports results, and a big emphasis on the community and the events that drove it.”
Tell us about if you have any special plans for the launch of the 2000th episode of the Hugo Straney Show. When and where can we hear it?
“I plan to be in Belfast for the 2000th show, as The Fleadh Cheoil will be held there for the first time. This is Ireland’s biggest traditional music festival event.”
Why is it important to you to highlight Irish music and stories in Canada?
“Ireland and Irishness is in my DNA and that will never leave me, although I’m also proud to call Canada my home. When I came here as a teenager, I was unaware of the closeness of Canada and Ireland and it’s rich and diverse and ancient history, and I’m very proud of that.”
How important is staying connected to the Irish community to you?
“I’m involved in many aspects of our community, including the St Patrick’s Day celebrations. I host a lot of parade events and parties, and MC the parade itself on TV.
I’ve been entertaining for many years and I am lucky to be still hosting a lot of festivals and events, as well as many fundraising drives for needy causes.”
What achievement are you proudest of and why does it stand out?
“I am proudest of my wife and family, who totally get what I do and never question or challenge me.
I am also deeply proud of my commitment to our community. It’s a natural thing. I have been lucky to meet, interview and perform with many major international stars, even portrayed one on stage [playing Joe Dolan in the Toronto Irish Players 2017 production of “The Night Joe Dolan’s Car Broke Down”].
But my greatest achievement will always be my next show or interview or performance. I am always conscious of that and always grateful that I can continue doing what I love, and what makes me proud.”
The Hugo Straney Radio Show is broadcast live every Sunday from 10am-12pm EST. The 2000th episode will be live on 2 August 2026. Access the show on CHIN Radio.