Philadelphia radio has lost one of its most enduring local voices. WMMR midday host Pierre Robert was found dead at his home on Wednesday. Robert joined WMMR in 1981 and became synonymous with the city’s rock identity for more than four decades.
The news was announced by WMMR owner Beasley Media Group. A cause of death is yet to be released. Authorities said no foul play is suspected.
Robert’s on-air features, Noontime Workforce Blocks, Pierre’s Vinyl Cut, artist interviews, and his On This Day music history segments were staples for generations of WMMR listeners.
His generosity was equally well known. He regularly hosted and supported community events, from the AIDS Walk to Manna’s Pie in the Sky fundraiser, and championed countless local charities through his on-air platform. In 2019, Robert’s legacy was cemented with his inclusion on the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame.
In a statement, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley said, “Pierre’s unwavering love for music and his deep connection with listeners made him one of radio’s most enduring and beloved voices. He will be greatly missed.”
Sorry to see him pass. He was a West Coast transplant that made this city his own. As mentioned by others, Thanksgiving will not be the same. He was a key piece of the fabric of our city. RIP Pierre.
I’m so sad to hear but as Pierre would say God bless the Grateful Dead can’t believe he’s gone RIP my friend
My father passed 5 years ago and while going through his things came across a picture of my parents with Pierre at some 70 doo-op concert. And It really made me smile. I have been a long time listener and card board classic participants for alot of years. Ran into Pierre at service plaza heading to CBC because I too am always running late.. but I had no idea this picture existed, my parents never so much as mentioned it to me. That photo means even more to me after hearing this sad sad news. The city of Philadelphia, the world of Radio and anything rock and roll lost one of the best there ever was, a real icon. He deserves a statue the size of rocky, and to be written about in history books. R.I.P Pierre you’ll be missed by the masses
When we moved from NJ where we grew up to NC 11 years ago I would look forward to Alice’s Resturant at noon on Thanksgiving I would podcast it to NC it will not be the same . A little story if his thoughtful generosity.When my daughter went to college in Florida I sent her a WMMR mug with his amazing face on it.She loved that mug.One day she called in tears saying she broke the MMR mug and could I get her another? Well unfortunately they No longer had them on the web site.I messaged Pierre asking if they might have a few laying around the station.I told him what happened.He messaged me asked for my daughters address in Florida and sent her a replacement and bunch of MMR swag.What a gentle thoughtful soul.He will be greatly missed.
What a great human being ! We all will miss his love of music and people. Peace and love was his message through music.
Blessed be
This legend and icon of a man deserved an induction into the radio hall of fame in his lifetime. He certainly better be honored posthumously.
RIP Pierre, and my condolences to the entire Philly music community, and all who knew and loved him. Especially to my friends, The Hooters, who Pierre supported with all his heart for many decades.
Pierre has been my friend, therapist and best traveling companion for as long as I can remember. Farewell my fair citizen. God Bless.
Seems like I listen to him forever . I’m shocked and so sad. You just never know when your time is up, he was always one of good guys
I thought he always talked too much but now I don’t no what I’m going to do with out his voice in my ear at lunch. GOD SPEED TO YOU FINE CITIZEN.
I am absolutely speechless! I just heard. He made so many days better for me over the years. One of my favorite memories was of a very hot 100 degree day in the mid 1990s. I got out of work, got in my steaming car and low and behold Pierre was playing Christmas carols. He could change my mood in a second! And always seemed to know just what to play. And his love of music was incredible. He will be sorely missed. RIP.
Dear Pierre, you can never be replaced. Your genuine warmth and caring shined through every afternoon while we listened to your wonderful voice. Not hearing your voice again is unthinkable. Glad we had a chance to meet you in person. You were just as kind and friendly in person as I could have wished for. RIP rock and roll animal!
Laura Bangert
Inwill
Miss hearing his voice on the radio. I started listening to him as a college student listening to WMMR. He and Reginald were noon time entertainment for a lot of us. Thank you Pierre and rest in peace.