Paul Kelly replaces Matt Cord as host of the WMGK radio show in Philadelphia.
In the wake of the unexpected passing of radio icon Pierre Robert, Philadelphia’s radio landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. Matt Cord, a seasoned radio personality and the public address announcer for the Philadelphia 76ers, will return to 93.3 WMMR to helm the midday show, a position Robert held for 44 years. The changes follow Robert’s untimely death on October 29, which left the local radio community in mourning.
Cord’s transition marks a return to WMMR, where he has made a name for himself over the years. He will be stepping into the role previously occupied by Robert, who was an integral figure in the local media scene, beloved by listeners and artists alike. Following Cord’s departure from 102.9 WMGK to WMMR, another radio veteran, Paul Kelly, will take over the morning program at WMGK. Kelly, who has been a versatile presence at the station since 2019, has experience across various time slots, making him an ideal candidate for the morning show, a position once held by the renowned John DeBella, who retired in 2023.
Both Cord and Kelly are scheduled to commence their new roles on Monday, continuing the legacy of influential broadcasting in Philadelphia. Kelly expressed his excitement about this opportunity, noting the significance of working alongside individuals he admired during his youth. His long-standing career dates back to 1989, with experiences spanning multiple markets, including Atlantic City, Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and Poughkeepsie, New York. In addition to his radio work, Kelly is the founder of Kelly Music for Life, which repurposed a former retail space into the Kelly Center for community events and concerts.
Chuck Damico, the program director for WMGK, emphasized Kelly’s deep connections within the Philadelphia community and his enthusiasm for classic rock music, suggesting that these traits will resonate well with the station’s listeners.
Pierre Robert’s passing at the age of 70 has prompted a heartfelt reaction from the community. Found in his Gladwyne home after failing to arrive at the station, the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, though it has been confirmed that foul play is not suspected. In remembrance of Robert, musicians are planning a memorial concert at The Fillmore on December 17, with proceeds benefiting the Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA). The concert will feature performances by notable acts such as The Hooters, Brent Smith and Zach Meyers of Shinedown, and Lizzy Hale of Halestorm.
In response to this transition, Cord noted that while no one can truly replace Robert, he is committed to honoring the legacy and spirit of his predecessor as he steps into the role. As the Philadelphia radio community adjusts to this loss, both Cord and Kelly are poised to carry the torch of entertainment forward, embracing the station’s storied history while forging new paths in the hearts of their listeners.
