Video: Homeless man captivates internet

The Columbus Dispatch discovered a homeless man along Ohio’s I-71 claiming to have “the God-given gift of voice.” His name is Ted Williams, and he’s an ex-radio announcer according to the note he scrawled on a piece of cardboard that he uses to solicit change from drivers. And wow, does Williams ever deliver for a dollar. Williams tells the Dispatch about his struggles, but thankfully “alcohol and drugs and a few other things” haven’t diminished Williams’ velvety vocal cords, and he says he’s two years clean now.

“I have a god given gift of voice. I’m an ex-radio announcer who has fallen on hard times. Please! Any help will be greatfully appreciated. Thank you and God bless. Happy holidays,” says Williams’ roadside sign for help.

Like Williams, the radio industry has fallen on hard times in the past decade, but given the viral power of this video, we expect more than a few morning show and late-night appearances, and perhaps even a job, will be in Williams’ near future. In fact, Reddit reports that Ted has already been tracked down by Columbus area radio show The Morning Zoo and will appear on tomorrow morning’s show.

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