Philadelphia radio icon Pierre Robert, a fixture on 93.3 WMMR for more than 40 years, died unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday at age 70.
According to Fox 29, musicians from across Philadelphia's scene and beyond joined his longtime co-hosts in mourning and celebrating his enduring impact.
What they're saying: WMMR's Preston Elliott and Steve Morrison appeared on Good Day Philadelphia Thursday, describing the loss as devastating.
"It hit us like a ton of bricks," Preston said. "It was sudden and unexpected, and we're struggling."
The duo dedicated their Thursday show to listener tributes. Morrison highlighted Robert's deep connection with fans.
"He took time with everyone," Morrison said. "Whether it was 150 people or 1,000, he stayed until the last one. He remembered names, asked about your life—he genuinely cared.
"That warmth extended to artists. Jon Bon Jovi called Robert a "great friend" who championed local talent and emerging acts.
"The station was lucky to have him. We were lucky to have him as our musical guide. I was lucky to call him a friend," Bon Jovi posted on Facebook.
What we know: Robert, 70, was found dead Wednesday after missing his mid-morning show, which airs right after Preston and Steve. Preston noted Robert often ran on "Pierre Standard Time" and joked about it, so initial lateness raised no alarm. By 11:45 a.m., during a post-show meeting, worry set in. Producer Ryan went to Robert's home, found the door locked and his car in the driveway, and called police, who entered and discovered him deceased.
Colleagues said Robert had no known health issues—he was fit and hit the gym daily."There was no illness; we don't know the cause," Preston said. "That's the question everyone has, and we'll learn eventually, but right now we don't."