Dave Kendall, who created and hosted MTV’s 120 Minutes, has died.
The British-born presenter and journalist helped found the hit MTV show, which debuted in March 1986 and was dedicated to shining a light on artists from genres that didn’t often get corporate recognition on the radio.
The series ran through to 2003, creating a platform for punk, ska, synth-pop, post-punk and goth artists, and was hosted by Kendall from its inception in 1986 up until 1992.
Confirmation of Kendall’s passing was shared by fellow MTV star and 120 Minutes co-host Matt Pinfield.
Sharing a tribute post yesterday (Tuesday July 14), Pinfield shared his admiration for his co-star, describing him as “one of the true believers”.
“Long before alternative music found its way into the mainstream, he was there every week on 120 Minutes, introducing people to bands that would go on to define an era,” the post read. “He didn’t just host a show. He gave a home to music that deserved to be heard.”
Pinfield concluded: “He loved the music, respected the artists, and connected with fans in a way that always felt authentic. That’s a rare gift.”
Fans have also taken to social media to pay their respects. “Damn. 120 minutes was my go-to for new music. RIP dave,” one wrote, while another agreed: “Oh boy !! what a week so far ! I grew up watching 120 Minutes , I learned a lot on my early teens. RIP”.
“Sad news. Dave was the coolest dude who helped all of us discover the music we’re still listening to. He will be terribly missed. The Pixies, Slowdive, Lush, The Sundays, Mission UK, Siouxsie. A true legend,” wrote a third.
“I used to record it on VHS tape every week. I discovered so many alternative bands that I still love. RIP,” someone else wrote on X.
damn. 120 minutes was my go-to for new music. RIP dave. 💔
— ellen balazki (@ellencbalazki) July 15, 2026
Oh boy !! what a week so far ! I grew up watching 120 Minutes , I learned a lot on my early teens …☹️😢 RIP
— @zenHamdü (@zenhamdu) July 15, 2026
I used to record it on VHS tape every week. I discovered so many alternative bands that I still love. RIP. 😢
— Christopher Chase (@christofurchase) July 15, 2026
Bro… Sad news. Dave was the coolest dude who helped all of us discover the music we’re still listening to. He will be terribly missed. The Pixies, Slowdive, Lush, The Sundays, Mission UK, Siouxsie. A true legend.
— Jason Lee (@jsonlee71) July 15, 2026
In the years since his time on 120 Minutes, Kendall continued work as a television host and producer, and also hosted a show SiriusXM’s First Wave.
In more recent years, he relocated to Thailand and worked as a correspondent for the Bangkok Post, as per Consequence.
