O'Connell was born in Buffalo, New York and attended Buffalo State College. His father is George O'Connell, the City Comptroller who led to effort to save the Shea's Performing Arts Center after it had fallen prey to taxes. His sister is Mary Kate O'Connell, a stage actress and WBBZ-TV host. His son Kevin Jr. is a chef who has operated restaurants and food trucks in Buffalo and Los Angeles.[1]

PICTURE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=q4GGAC-VMpE