Don Cornelius

Donald Cortez "Don" Cornelius (September 27, 1936 – February 1, 2012) was an American television host and television producer. He was known for creating the music franchise series Soul Train.

Don Cornelius
Don Cornelius at the 40th anniversary event for Soul Train.
Born	Donald Cortez Cornelius (1936-09-27)September 27, 1936 Bronzeville, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Died	February 1, 2012(2012-02-01) (aged 75) Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Cause of death	Suicide by gunshot
Body discovered	Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Education	DuSable High School
Occupation(s)	Television host, producer
Years active	1966–2011
Known for	Creator of Soul Train WVON home station
Spouse(s)	Delores Harrison (1956 – ?) 2 children Viktoria Chapman (also known as Viktoria Avila-Cornelius; December 2001 – ?) (divorced)
Children	Anthony and Raymond (first marriage)

Cornelius was born in Chicago, Illinois. He was married to Delores Harrison until they divorced. He was later married to Viktoria Chapman from 2001 until they divorced. Cornelius committed suicide on February 1, 2012 in Sherman Oaks, California after shooting himself with a gun.^[1]