Philadelphia Radio Legend Pierre Robert Dies at 70
The iconic WMMR host, known for his “Greetings, Citizens” salutation, was a beloved voice in the city for over four decades.
The voice that greeted Philadelphia for generations with a warm “Greetings, Citizens” has fallen silent. Pierre Robert, the legendary midday host on 93.3 WMMR, passed away on October 29, 2025. He was 70 years old . The Beasley Media Group, which owns WMMR, confirmed his death, sending waves of grief through the city he served for 44 years .
Robert was found at his home, and no foul play is suspected . While the specific cause of death has not been publicly released, his passing marks the end of an era for Philadelphia radio and its vibrant music community .
A Career Built on Music and Connection
Pierre Robert’s journey with WMMR began in 1981 when he joined the rock station after driving from San Francisco in his Volkswagen van, “Minerva” . What followed was an uninterrupted tenure that made him one of the most recognizable and beloved personalities in the region .
His show was a daily masterclass in music appreciation, blending classic rock, alternative, punk, and singer-songwriter tracks . Listeners tuned in not just for the music, but for the unique experience Robert created through segments like “Pierre’s Vinyl Cut,” where he spun tracks from the station’s vast archive, and his “On This Day” history lessons . He was famously operating on “Pierre Standard Time,” with his show often starting late or running long, much to the affectionate amusement of his audience .
Beyond the music, his connection with his listeners was unparalleled. He referred to them as “citizens” and treated them like personal friends .
An Irreplaceable Void in Philadelphia’s Heart
The news of Pierre Robert’s death was met with an immediate and heartfelt outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and the music industry.
Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley expressed the collective sorrow, stating, “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” . She highlighted that he “truly cared about his listeners and the people of Philadelphia” .
On social media, the grief was palpable. Radio personality Glen Macnow wrote, “Nobody in our biz did it better & with more class than Pierre Robert. I’m shocked and saddened… RIP to a giant” . Fellow host Natalie Egenolf shared, “Huge, huge loss for the Philadelphia airways,” promising to play Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant” louder this Thanksgiving in his honor—a nod to Robert’s tradition of playing the 18-minute song in its entirety every year .
Fans recalled how his voice was the soundtrack to their afternoons. One listener, Adam Barnard, credited Robert as “a major influence on me and wanting to get into radio and podcasting,” calling his passing “an absolutely crushing day in Philly to lose this titan and legend of our city” .
More Than a DJ: A Pillar of the Community
Pierre Robert’s impact extended far beyond the airwaves. He was a steadfast supporter of charitable initiatives throughout Philadelphia, using his platform for good . He was a familiar face at events like the AIDS Walk and was deeply involved in supporting Manna’s Pie in the Sky fundraiser, which provides meals for those living with serious illnesses .
His generosity and community spirit were as much a part of his identity as his voice. In 2019, his contributions were formally recognized with a star on the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame, cementing his status as a cultural icon in the city .
The Legacy of a “Good Citizen”
Pierre Robert’s career was a testament to the power of authenticity. In an industry often marked by change, he remained a constant, reliable presence . He never pretended to be a sports fan in a sports-obsessed city, instead famously referring to all local teams as “The Boys in Blue” regardless of their actual colors .
His passion for music was genuine and infectious, earning him the respect of rock legends who granted him rare interviews and appeared on his show . From flashing the “God Bless the Grateful Dead” sign on air to presenting them with a commemorative flag at the Spectrum, his enthusiasm shaped the musical tastes of countless listeners .
As the city and the radio industry grapple with this profound loss, the question of who could possibly fill his seat remains unanswerable . Pierre Robert was not just a host; he was a part of Philadelphia’s family. His legacy lives on in the music he loved, the community he uplifted, and the millions of afternoons he brightened with his simple, heartfelt greeting: “Greetings, Citizens.” His was the voice of Philadelphia, and it will echo for a long time to come.
