Entertainer Nick Cannon is joining RadioShack as chief creative officer for the Fort Worth-based electronics retailer.
Cannon will play an active role in the development of RadioShack-exclusive products as well as work to transform the retailer into a must-visit electronics destination, via from curating the music selection in the stores to performances and events. He will also help the company grow its educational and S.T.E.M (science, technology, engineering and math) initiatives nationwide. He will maintain an office at RadioShack headquarters in Fort Worth.
Cannon’s relationship with RadioShack goes back to the age of 8, shortly after inheriting his grandfather’s stereo equipment. After taking apart the components and not knowing how to put the equipment back together, Cannon turned to his neighborhood RadioShack in San Diego, eventually learning how to assemble the equipment, and also make modifications so that he had the best sound system in the area.
“RadioShack is a brand that matters,” said Cannon in a news release. “As a kid, spending time in my neighborhood RadioShack was invaluable. The maker mentality and educational approach taught me a lot and encouraged me to explore my own creativity. In return I wanted to give back by fostering creative pursuits in others, and helping kids move to the next level. I’ve been able to do that with my company, NCredible, and I’m proud to do even more as chief creative officer for RadioShack.”
Founded in 1921, RadioShack is owned today by General Wireless Inc., which acquired the brand in March 2015 following a bankruptcy. The new RadioShack has over 1,700 company-owned stores, including 1,400 Sprint Stores at RadioShack, and nearly 500 independent dealers.
“Nick Cannon is one of today’s most successful personalities in the entertainment industry and the picture of a RadioShack success story,” said Michael Tatelman, RadioShack’s chief marketing officer. “Throughout our history, RadioShack has sought to inspire, educate and innovate through our different programs and products. With Cannon’s innate, innovative drive and authentic connection to RadioShack, he is the perfect person to join our team. RadioShack is back.”
As an actor, TV executive producer and host, comedian, writer, director, DJ, entrepreneur, philanthropist and children’s book author, Cannon has had a hand in the entertainment industry for more than 20 years. Cannon produces TV and film projects (the upcoming Oxygen show Like a Boss), and a line of consumer products. He will next be seen in Spike Lee’s Chi-Raq in theaters December 4. Additional credits include, Brooklyn 99, Wild N ‘Out, America’s Got Talent, Bobby, Drumline. Cannon serves as chairman of TeenNick, CEO of teen magazine Celebrity High, and on the Board of Directors of New York’s St. Mary’s Children’s Hospital, and runs his own charity, Nicholas Scott Cannon Foundation. Cannon was previously married to singer Mariah Carey.Â