Veteran Philadelphia broadcaster Wally Kennedy, whose distinctive voice and interviewing skills made him a fixture on local television for more than two decades, died on October 30, 2024 in Pennsylvania. He was 76.
The cause was lung cancer, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Kennedy spent 20 years at WPVI-TV (6abc) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he hosted several popular programs including “AM Philadelphia,” “AM Live,” and “Philly After Midnight.” His shows consistently topped Nielsen ratings in their time slots.
Bernie Prazenica, 6abc President and General Manager, highlighted Kennedy’s memorable presence on air. “Wally had a very distinctive voice and one that was unusually strong and easily remembered,” Prazenica said.
Throughout his career, Kennedy interviewed numerous celebrities, including comedian Rosie O’Donnell, actor John Ritter, and Prince Albert of Monaco. His versatility allowed him to cover everything from entertainment to true crime to Philadelphia’s social scene.
A Chicago native and Columbia College Chicago graduate, Kennedy worked in several markets before arriving in Philadelphia. His career included stops in Flint, Michigan, and Atlanta, Georgia, where he worked at WSB Radio. He joined WCAU radio in Philadelphia in 1981 before moving to WPVI-TV.
After leaving 6abc in 2004, Kennedy continued his broadcasting career at KYW NewsRadio until 2019. He also shared his expertise with the next generation of journalists as an adjunct professor at Temple University’s School of Journalism and Immaculata University.
In 2011, Kennedy was inducted into the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to local media. During his retirement, he enjoyed studying World War II history, watching classic films, and reading to his granddaughter.
Kennedy is survived by his wife Glendia and three children.