(NAFB.com) – Farm broadcasting legend Orion Samuelson, long-time member of NAFB and retired Emeritus, passed away March 16, 2026, at the age of 91. Samuelson would have been 92 years old on March 31.

Orion Samuelson, the “American Farmer’s Best Friend,” is a legend whose career is likely never to be duplicated. Affectionately known as ‘Big O’, Orion changed the farm media business and had a profound impact on all agriculture. He is one of agriculture’s few celebrities, known to millions by his first name only. Entire generations have grown up on the farm listening intently when his trusted baritone voice came on the radio. His impact and influence transcended generations.

Orion brought agriculture to life through decades of reporting on WGN Radio and television. He was the host for U.S. Farm Report and later This Week in Agribusiness. Samuelson spent 60 years in broadcasting until his retirement in 2020.

He had a tremendous influence in the farm broadcasting community, mentoring and encouraging countless young journalists on their career journeys. He served as NAFB president in 1965 and continued to serve in active roles throughout his membership. He was inducted into the NAFB Hall of Fame in 1999 and into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2003.