MTV was a groundbreaking cable station that revolutionized pop culture with its focus on music videos and the introduction of video jockeys, or VJs. The original VJs – Nina Blackwood, Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter, J.J. Jackson, and Martha Quinn – became icons of the era. Despite MTV deprioritizing music video programming over the years, the legacy of these VJs remains significant.
Martha Quinn, known for her sweet and perky personality, joined MTV straight out of NYU and left in 1986 before returning in 1989 until 1992. She dabbled in acting and continued her career with roles on TV shows and hosting gigs. In the 2000s, she found a niche in satellite radio and hosted various programs before becoming the host of The Martha Quinn Show on iHeartRadio. In 2023, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer but is currently in recovery.
Nina Blackwood, who originally studied acting before becoming an MTV VJ, remained with the channel until 1986. She transitioned to radio and established herself as a host for various programs. Blackwood, now 69, currently hosts The Big ’80s Top 40 Countdown along with her fellow original VJs on SiriusXM. Reflecting on her VJ years, she emphasized the importance of credibility and doing a good job.
Mark Goodman, a seasoned radio host before joining MTV, left the channel in 1987 and pursued various hosting gigs on TV and radio. He has been a host for SiriusXM since 2004, featuring nostalgic programs. Goodman, now 71, recalled the chaotic yet fun early years of MTV and the lasting bonds formed with the crew and other VJs.
Alan Hunter, who studied acting before becoming an MTV VJ, stayed with the channel until 1987. He then relocated to L.A. and pursued acting opportunities before establishing his film company and entertainment venue in Birmingham. Hunter, now 67, has been on SiriusXM since 2004, hosting nostalgic programs. He acknowledged that he initially felt intimidated by other VJs with more music industry experience but approached the job with enthusiasm.
J.J. Jackson, the oldest and most experienced of the original MTV VJs, had a long radio career before joining the channel. After leaving MTV in 1986, he returned to radio and continued his work, hosting programs until his passing in 2004. Jackson reflected on his time at MTV as a promotional tool that unexpectedly became an iconic aspect of pop culture. His legacy, along with that of the other original VJs, continues to be celebrated in the music and entertainment industry.
