It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of renowned Seattle radio host Bob Rivers, who died on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, due to complications from esophageal cancer. His wife, Lisa Rivers, confirmed his death to the Seattle Times, stating he was 68 years old at the time of his passing.
In her heartfelt message, Lisa shared:
“I have everything that Bob’s done and that we’ve done together to be grateful for. I will miss him tremendously but I can push play on his voice and our memories will live on.”
For those unfamiliar with his legacy, Rivers was a fixture in Seattle’s radio landscape for over 20 years, best known for his sharp wit, engaging commentary, and comedic song parodies, collectively known as “Twisted Tunes.”
Legacy of a Radio Legend
Rivers made a significant mark on the radio industry, leaving behind an estimated fortune of $1 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth. His journey began in Honolulu, where he was born, before moving to Branford, Connecticut, where his passion for radio ignited at a tender age. He famously made his on-air debut at just five years old after winning a local contest and even established a makeshift radio station during high school.
At 16, Rivers embarked on a career in broadcasting. He quickly gained recognition through successful stints in Boston and Baltimore, where he famously stayed on-air for 11 consecutive days during the Baltimore Orioles’ infamous 1988 losing streak. This dedication eventually led him to Seattle’s KISW 99.9 FM.
The Bob Rivers Show: A Cultural Phenomenon
Rivers launched Bob Rivers Twisted Radio in Seattle, presenting a distinctive blend of rock music, humor, and interviews with notable pop culture figures. The program evolved in 2001 into The Bob Rivers Show when it transitioned to KZOK, incorporating not just music but also comedic impersonations, sports commentary, and entertaining skits.
In 2011, Rivers moved his show to KJR-FM after a contract dispute with CBS. This new iteration continued to enjoy success until it concluded in August 2014, marking the 25th anniversary of his debut in Seattle radio.
A Final Reflection on His Impact
In remembrance of his father’s success, Rivers’ son Andrew expressed:
“He got to be himself. I think that’s why he succeeded.”
The Bob Rivers Show frequently topped popularity polls, cementing its place in Seattle radio history. In 2023, the show was honored with an induction into the Radio Hall of Fame. Co-host Joe Bryant reflected on Rivers’ profound influence, stating:
“Other than my father, there is no man who has influenced my life more than Bob.”
Upon retiring from radio, Rivers pursued a quiet life with his wife of 42 years in Vermont, where they engaged in maple syrup farming. His love for broadcasting persisted, leading him to explore podcasting.
Rivers was diagnosed with esophageal cancer three years prior to his death. Despite battling the disease through chemotherapy and surgeries, he continued to work on his podcast and other creative projects.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rivers produced numerous Twisted Tunes parodies and released Christmas albums, including Twisted Christmas (1988), which achieved gold certification by the RIAA, and I Am Santa Claus (2002). He was also a member of the band Spike and the Impalers, which performed to packed audiences.
Bob Rivers is survived by his devoted wife Lisa, sons Andrew and Keith, daughter-in-law Leanne, and granddaughters Hazel and Georgia.