Philadelphia Radio Legend Pierre Robert Dies at 70

Philadelphia radio legend Pierre Robert has died at the age of 70.

The news, which broke on Wednesday afternoon, quickly spread across social media and sent shockwaves through the broadcasting industry.

Circumstances of His Passing

Inside Radio reports that Robert was found dead in his home earlier in the day. Police say the circumstances of his passing are still under investigation, but foul play is not suspected.

Career Beginnings

Robert, who moved to Philadelphia in the early 80s, had been with 93.3 WMMR for 44 years.

He was born in Truckee, CA, in 1955 and his broadcasting career began at KSAN in San Francisco. When that station changed format from progressive rock to country, Robert hopped into his 1970 Volkswagen van and drove it across country, eventually stopping in Philadelphia.

As the story goes, he sent a demo tape to WMMR in an attempt to get a job, which he did not get. Shortly thereafter, he visited a palm reader on South Street, who told him, "you're gonna get a letter very soon." When he got home, a letter from WMMR was waiting for him, which offered him a job.

Throughout his four decades at WMMR, Robert hosted just about every daypart -- overnights, morning drive, and, for the past several years, middays.

• Video: Robert Inducted into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia's Hall of Fame in 2015

Statement from Beasley Broadcasting

A statement from Beasley Broadcasting, which owns WMMR, read in part:

A true radio icon, Pierre was one of the most recognized personalities in the City of Philadelphia. He joined the rock station back in 1981 and hosted the midday show with his unabashed love for music, his listeners, and the city. The legendary rock radio personality was best known for his welcoming ‘Greetings Citizens’ salutation, along with his big heart and warm voice!

WMMR took to Facebook on Wednesday afternoon and shared the news with this brief remark:

We’re heartbroken to share the passing of our dear friend and legendary voice, Pierre Robert. You will be missed beyond words.

Robert was 70 years old.