On October 30, 2024, seasoned Philadelphia, Pennsylvania broadcaster Wally Kennedy died, leaving behind a significant legacy in local television. Known for his unique voice and notable interviewing abilities, Kennedy was a familiar face in Philadelphia broadcasting for over two decades. He was 76 at the time of his death.
As reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer, Kennedy succumbed to lung cancer.
Kennedy’s broadcasting career spanned 20 years at WPVI-TV (6abc) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During his tenure, he hosted several successful shows including “AM Philadelphia,” “AM Live,” and “Philly After Midnight.” Kennedy’s programs consistently achieved top Nielsen ratings within their respective time slots.
“Wally had a very distinctive voice and one that was unusually strong and easily remembered,” Bernie Prazenica, 6abc President and General Manager, reflected on Kennedy’s impactful on-air persona.
Kennedy’s career was marked by his versatility, covering a wide range of topics from entertainment and true crime to the social scene of Philadelphia. He interviewed various celebrities, including comedian Rosie O’Donnell, actor John Ritter, and Prince Albert of Monaco.
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Kennedy was a graduate of Columbia College Chicago. Before his broadcasting career in Philadelphia, he worked in various markets, including Flint, Michigan, and Atlanta, Georgia at WSB Radio. In 1981, he transitioned to WCAU radio in Philadelphia before moving to WPVI-TV.
After parting ways with 6abc in 2004, Kennedy extended his broadcasting career at KYW NewsRadio until 2019. He also used his expertise to mentor aspiring journalists, serving as an adjunct professor at both Temple University’s School of Journalism and Immaculata University.
Kennedy’s significant contributions to the local media industry were recognized in 2011 when he was inducted into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia Hall of Fame. During his retirement years, he took pleasure in studying World War II history, watching classic films, and reading to his granddaughter.
Kennedy is survived by his wife Glendia, and their three children.
