Pierre Robert Family: Everything We Know About the Late WMMR Radio Icon

Legendary Philadelphia radio host Pierre Robert, best known for his decades-long career on 93.3 WMMR, passed away at the age of 70. He was reportedly found dead at his home on Wednesday morning. The cause of death has not been confirmed, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken across the city’s music community.

Known for his signature “Greetings, Citizens!” salutation and his deep connection to Philadelphia’s rock culture, Robert was one of the most recognizable voices on local radio. His sudden death marks the end of a remarkable era in American rock broadcasting.

Pierre Robert’s Career and Legacy

Pierre Robert’s broadcasting journey began in the San Francisco Bay Area at KSAN-FM (94.9), one of the earliest progressive rock stations in the United States. Immersed in the free-spirited counterculture of the 1970s, Robert refined his voice and style during a time of musical experimentation and social change. When KSAN later changed formats, he packed up his 1970 Volkswagen van, affectionately named “Minerva,” and drove east in search of a new chapter.

He arrived in Philadelphia in 1981 and joined 93.3 WMMR, initially working behind the scenes before moving into on-air shifts. His warm tone, deep knowledge of rock music, and easygoing humor quickly earned him a loyal following. Within a few years, he became the midday host and one of WMMR’s most iconic figures.

Over more than four decades, Robert interviewed countless music legends and introduced generations of listeners to both classic and emerging artists. His radio show became a cultural touchstone for Philadelphia’s music fans. In recognition of his lasting impact, he was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame in 2019. Two years later, WMMR named its main studio after him in celebration of his 40 years on air.

Robert’s passion for live music was unmatched—he attended thousands of concerts and shared personal stories with fans both on and off the air. One of his most famous moments came in 1994, when he presented a flag to The Grateful Dead during their concert at the Spectrum, a moment that became part of local rock folklore.

Pierre Robert’s Family and Personal Life

As of now, details about Pierre Robert’s family remain private. The longtime radio host kept his personal life largely out of the public eye, choosing instead to let his work and personality speak for themselves. While no verified information about his immediate family or survivors has been released, tributes from colleagues and friends suggest he was deeply loved by his “radio family” at WMMR and the broader Philadelphia community.

Robert renewed his contract with WMMR in January 2024, just months before his death, saying, “To paraphrase the Grateful Dead: What a long, strange, and wonderful trip it’s been… and still is!” His words now feel like a fitting farewell from one of the most genuine voices in rock radio.

As the city mourns, listeners continue to share memories of Pierre Robert’s kindness, humor, and unwavering love for music. His voice may be gone, but his impact will echo through Philadelphia’s airwaves for years to come.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was Pierre Robert?

Pierre Robert was a legendary Philadelphia radio host who worked at 93.3 WMMR for over four decades, known for his passion for rock music and his iconic “Greetings, Citizens!” greeting.

Q2: What was Pierre Robert’s cause of death?

The official cause of death has not been released. He was reportedly found dead at his home at the age of 70.

Q3: Did Pierre Robert have a family?

Details about his family have not been made public. He was known to keep his personal life private.

Q4: How long did Pierre Robert work at WMMR?

He joined WMMR in 1981 and worked there for over 40 years, becoming one of the station’s most recognizable voices.

Q5: What honors did Pierre Robert receive?

He was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame in 2019, and WMMR renamed its main studio after him in 2021.