Pierre Robert, the legendary radio personality whose distinctive voice and unabashed love for rock music defined Philadelphia’s airwaves for more than four decades, was found dead in his home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. He was 70 years old.
Robert, whose name was pronounced “Ro-Bear,” was discovered at his residence on Wednesday, according to Beasley Media Group, the parent company of 93.3 WMMR. No foul play is suspected in his death, though the circumstances surrounding his passing remain under investigation by authorities.
The news sent shockwaves through Philadelphia’s music community and beyond. Just days before his death, Robert had posted a photo of himself on Instagram, sitting on a park bench in Rittenhouse Square with a book and coffee, writing about his beloved city and the simple pleasures of an afternoon spent watching the world drift by.
Born William Pierre Robert in California, the disc jockey began his broadcasting career on San Francisco’s KSAN rock station before making the move east that would define his legacy. He joined WMMR in 1981 and remained a constant presence on the station for 44 years, hosting his midday show from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Robert’s program became a staple for listeners across southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, Delaware, and parts of Maryland. His famous saying, “Greetings, Citizens,” opened each show, welcoming audiences into his world of rock and roll discovery. The program featured daily segments including “Noontime Workforce Blocks,” “Pierre’s Vinyl Cut,” exclusive artist interviews, live in-studio performances, and “On This Day” history lessons that educated listeners on rock’s rich heritage.
Beyond his on-air presence, Robert demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Philadelphia’s community. He regularly hosted and supported charitable initiatives, from attending the AIDS Walk to providing on-air support for MANNA’s Pie in the Sky fundraiser, which provides Thanksgiving meals to people and families battling serious illnesses. His generosity extended to all of WMMR’s charitable causes, reflecting his genuine care for the city and its residents.
The Philadelphia Music Alliance honored Robert’s contributions in 2019 by cementing his star on its Walk of Fame, recognizing him as one of the city’s most recognizable celebrities and a central figure in its live music scene.
Fellow WMMR hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison, who opened the station’s morning programming with “The Preston and Steve Show,” paid tribute to their colleague. Elliot described Robert’s profound impact, noting he had never met a better or bigger music fan. Morrison emphasized that Robert was simply a regular guy who legitimately cared about everybody, calling him one of the true legendary rock DJs in the country.
Rock icon Jon Bon Jovi joined the chorus of tributes pouring in from across the music industry. The singer shared memories of Robert on Instagram, remembering him as someone who truly loved all types of music and musicians, from chart toppers to local artists and tomorrow’s rising stars. Bon Jovi reflected that Robert made the world a kinder, more wonder-filled place to live through his dedication to music and community service.
Beasley Media Group Chief Executive Officer Caroline Beasley released a statement expressing the company’s grief. “Pierre’s unwavering love for music and his deep connection with listeners made him one of radio’s most enduring and beloved voices,” Beasley said. “He will be greatly missed.”
Robert had signed a contract extension with WMMR in January 2024, solidifying his commitment to the station for several more years. The sudden loss left the station and its listeners reeling. WMMR suspended its regular programming on Wednesday to mourn Robert’s death, with tributes appearing on Philadelphia concert venues including Xfinity Mobile Arena, the Met, and the Fillmore.
Days after his death, hundreds of fans and friends gathered at Rittenhouse Square to remember the beloved broadcaster. The celebration of life reflected the deep connection Robert had forged with his audience over decades of broadcasting, greeting legions of fans as if they were personal friends at venues ranging from the smallest clubs to the largest stadiums.
The station has not announced a replacement for Robert’s midday slot. His legacy lives on through the countless musicians he championed, the charitable causes he supported, and the generations of Philadelphia listeners who grew up with his voice as their guide through the musical galaxy of rock and roll.
