If you ask anyone within 100 miles of Ottawa, it’s likely they know of “Stuntman” Stu Schwartz. The familiar media personality was a radio host for Bell Media for 18 years under the nickname “Stuntman Stu” until the morning show team was let go in February in a round of layoffs. In this latest chapter of Schwartz’s life, he’s been soaking up all that his beloved Ottawa — including “beautiful Barrhaven” — has to offer.
Schwartz started out as a weather host on CJOH TV before hosting morning shows with Team 1200 AM’s “Three Guys on the Radio,” 93.9 BOB-FM’s “Stuntman Stu and the Shark,” and finally Majic 100, which was later rebranded as Move 100.3.
Schwartz began his radio career as a morning show volunteer for 106.9’s The Bear and was a PA announcer for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. He has also held various roles in announcing and television, including a few gigs as an auctioneer and MC. He’s currently a spokesperson for Barrhaven Ford, a perfect fit for the car-loving extrovert.
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In this instalment of My Ottawa Life, Schwartz lets readers in on his favourite hairdresser, his preferred retailer — you’ll never guess it — and his go-to spot for the best in pub fare. Oh, then there’s why he wants to be reincarnated as a reptile, which tourism attraction he has yet to check out, and why he lost spending privileges in his marriage.
What area of the city/region do you live in?
Beautiful Barrhaven!
What type of home do you have (condo, house, etc.)?
We live in a house which I have zero control in.
What type of pet do you have?
My daughter has two bearded dragons, awesome pets. They literally sit and do nothing all day. In my next life I’m coming back as one.
What type of car do you drive?
Only Ford! I bought a Mustang a few years ago as an impulse purchase. Came home and my son said, “Hey Mommy, Daddy bought a new car.” Since that day all purchases must be approved by her.
What’s your favourite part of town?
Barrhaven. We have a Costco with a gas station!!!
What is your favourite place to eat in Ottawa?
Golden Palace. I remember my father introducing me to it in the summer of ‘94 before I moved here from Montreal. Best egg rolls in the world.
What is your favourite activity in Ottawa?
Eating! We have so many hidden gems in our city!
What’s your favourite hobby?
Anything to do with cars. Have loved them since I was a kid. One day I’ll have 10 of my dream cars; yes, one will be a Ford pick-up with really obnoxious big tires.
What’s your favourite local charity or cause?
I’ve always had a piece of my heart with CHEO. It was one of the ones I first noticed when I arrived in ‘94. Everyone that works there has a heart of gold.
What’s an attraction or activity in Ottawa you’ve always wanted to try?
I’ve never been to the Diefenbunker!!
What’s one of your favourite memories of living and working in Ottawa?
I was lucky to work as the PA announcer for the Sens for 12 seasons and remember the Stanley Cup well. It was an experience I’ll never forget.
What’s your favourite festival?
I worked security at the Canadian Tulip Festival in ‘95, it kind of signifies the beginning of spring/summer.
If you were to play tour guide for a first-time visitor to Ottawa for a day, where would you take them?
Beautiful Barrhaven! Have I mentioned we have a Costco with a gas bar??
What’s your favourite retailer in Ottawa?
La Bottega and Farmer’s Pick. Both Italian grocers and scoring points with my wife who’s … Italian.
What’s your favourite live music or entertainment venue?
Sadly, it’s not around anymore, but there was nothing better than a show at Barrymore’s.
What type of music do you listen to?
I’m all over the map! One minute it’s ‘80s then next it’s rap. As we speak, I’m listening to ‘80s on 8 (satellite).
Where do you get your hair cut?
I love Tommy Gunns, Emily is the Queen.
What’s your favourite weekend outing to do with family or friends?
Eating at someone’s house always wins.
What Ottawa personality, past or present, do you admire?
I was always in awe of Steve Madely, nobody reads a Farm Boy ad like him.
If you took a staycation in Ottawa, what would you do?
Easy! Fairmont Chateau Laurier wins every time. Have a delicious dinner at Zoe’s and relax.
What’s your favourite event or conference in Ottawa?
I have been part of the celebrity sports dinner almost since day one. Have been fortunate to meet all my sports heroes, hopefully they’ll convince Tom Brady to come one day. Yes I have a man crush on him!
What’s your favourite thing to do in Ottawa to pamper or treat yourself?
Honestly, my life is pretty simple. I’d get a pepperoni pizza from San Marino and just chill at home with the wife and kids.
What local business or attraction do you think is one of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets?
Barrhaven Ford! Ok, ok, the Marlborough Pub in North Gower makes some of the best food in the city. It’s not fancy, just 100-per-cent homemade.
What’s your favourite thing about Ottawa?
We have such a great community, willing to support so many incredible charities. No matter what the event is, someone will always step up!
