Pierre Robert, 93.3 WMMR Legend, Found Dead at Home

Pierre Robert, a beloved disc jockey in the South Jersey-Philadelphia area, has passed away. According to his employer, Beasley Media Group, the 70-year-old was found dead at his home on October 29. The police report mentioned that no foul play is suspected, but the exact circumstances of his death remain unknown.

Robert, known for his signature greeting "Greetings, Citizens!" was a staple on 93.3 FM WMMR since joining the station in 1981. His deep passion for music, his listeners, and the city earned him a loyal following over the decades. He hosted artist interviews, live in-studio performances, and daily features such as his Noontime Workforce Blocks and Pierre’s Vinyl Cut.

His unique image included shoulder-length hair and a black-and-grey beard, which were often featured on local billboards. Robert's approach to broadcasting stood out for its mellow tone. He once expressed his belief that radio could be an elevating force rather than catering to the lowest common denominator.

Born in Truckee, California, Robert started his career after attending a broadcasting school in San Francisco. He worked at two radio stations there before moving to Philadelphia in 1981. At the time, he was unhappy with his station switching from rock to country music. He followed friends to Philadelphia, bringing along his love for the Grateful Dead.

Initially, Robert struggled to find radio work. He took a job at Essene, a health food store on South Street, where he eventually pitched his services to patrons discussing the radio business. This led to an assistant position in 'MMR's music department. A few weeks later, he filled a DJ spot on the overnight shift and later moved to morning drive-time in 1982 and the mid-day slot in 1996.

In 2001, during his 20th anniversary at 'MMR, Robert stated he did not want to be remembered as a radio giant but rather as someone who made a positive difference in some small way.

“He was truly a gentle soul,” said Chuck Darrow, recalling Robert in an interview on October 29. “I would imagine over the course of his lifetime, Pierre had less hurtful thoughts than any other person.”

Thanksgiving was always a special time for Pierre Robert fans, as he often played Arlo Guthrie's "Alice Restaurant Massacree" and offered listeners a chance to send greetings to family and friends. In May of this year, Robert hosted the legendary Philly band The Hooters as they debuted their new single, "The Pendulum." He introduced The Hooters to the stage during their Oct. 24-25 appearance at the Keswick Theater in Glenside, Pennsylvania.

Fran Smith Jr., a 30-year-member of the band, expressed his shock at Robert's passing. “The news of Pierre’s passing is shocking and incredibly heartbreaking. He has been such a huge part of The Hooters family, not for years, but for decades! He was there in the beginning years in Berlin when we played as the wall came down, and we shared the honor of receiving the 'Walk of Fame' plaque on the same day on Broad Street a few years back. Pierre has been there for us, and with us, all along the way ever since.”

Ben Vaughn, a well-known composer, record producer, and band leader, also called Robert's death a tragedy. “Losing Pierre is a huge hit for Philly. Not only was he a great DJ and on-air personality but he was out in the clubs almost every night catching local bands. It was always great to see him in the crowd. And he was very loyal to the city. Until the end he refused to play Guns ’n Roses because they cancelled a show in Philly and never apologized for it.”

On a personal level, Vaughn loved Robert even more because of his affection for the Geator. “Going to dinner with the two of them will forever remain one of my fondest memories. The mutual respect they had for each other was beautiful to witness. Pierre was the best. I hope Philly can survive this loss.”

Darrow fondly remembered the time he introduced Robert to the son of another icon. “He made no secret to his audience of his true love and appreciation of the music of Frank Sinatra,” said Darrow, who added Robert also became a fan of Sinatra's namesake. “It was my great pleasure to introduce Pierre to Frank Sinatra Jr. at the Borgata.”

Many who had built close ties with Robert, whether professional or personal, expressed love and admiration in a deluge of social media posts. The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania highlighted Robert’s instrumental role in a blood drive held annually for two decades. “His dedication helped save lives, and his presence always lifted our team’s spirit. Pierre’s legacy is one of generosity, joy and unwavering support for his community. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.”

The Beasley statement also noted the disc jockey's "active and genuine support" for the company's charitable initiatives. “He truly cared about his listeners and the people of Philadelphia,” it said. Robert was honored with a star on the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame.

“We all have heavy hearts today,” said Caroline Beasley, the firm's CEO. She said Robert's 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.”

Smith echoed the sentiments of many of Robert's fans across the region, calling him "the heartbeat of WMMR." “So hard to believe he’s gone,” he said. “Rest in peace, dear friend. You will always hold a special place in our hearts.”