Bobby Rivers Dies at 70: Celebrities and Fans Pay Tribute to the Beloved Host and Star
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved and versatile personalities, Bobby Rivers. The former VH1 host, Food Network star, and radio personality died on December 26, 2023, at the age of 70, after a long battle with cancer. Rivers was known for his witty and warm interviews with celebrities, his passion for food and movies, and his trailblazing career as an openly gay and Black media figure.
A Pioneer in the Industry
Rivers was born in 1953 in South Central Los Angeles, where he grew up during the turbulent 1960s. He graduated from Marquette University in Wisconsin, where he studied journalism and theater. He made his first television appearance as a high school student on a syndicated classic film trivia game show, where he was the first African-American contestant and the youngest winner.
He began his professional career in Milwaukee, where he worked as a radio DJ and a film critic for WISN-TV, the city’s ABC affiliate. He was the first African-American film critic on TV in Milwaukee. He also auditioned as a possible replacement for Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert when they left Chicago PBS for Disney syndication.
In 1985, he moved to New York City, where he became an entertainment reporter for WPIX-TV. Two years later, he was hired by VH1 as a video jockey, where he quickly rose to fame as the host of his own prime-time celebrity talk show, Watch Bobby Rivers. He interviewed some of the biggest names in Hollywood, such as Paul McCartney, Meryl Streep, Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, Liza Minnelli, and Norman Mailer. He also co-hosted segments with Rosie O’Donnell, who was a new addition to the network at the time.
Stephen Holden of The New York Times called Rivers “a master interviewer with a gift for banter.” Rivers was praised for his ability to connect with his guests and make them feel comfortable and relaxed. He was also known for his humor and his queer-coded references, which he often used to signal his identity to his LGBTQ+ audience.
Rivers later hosted two short-lived syndicated game shows, Bedroom Buddies and Trivia Track. He also worked as a lifestyles and entertainment reporter for WNBC-TV and WNYW-TV, where he replaced Gordon Elliott. He appeared on stage and on screen, most notably on The Sopranos. In 2000, he became the entertainment editor on Lifetime Live, a weekday magazine show hosted by Deborah Roberts and Dana Reeve.
In 2002, he joined the Food Network as the host of Top 5, a show that ranked the best food items in various categories. He showcased his love for food and his knowledge of culinary history and culture. He also shared his personal stories and anecdotes related to food. The show ended in 2004, but continued to air in repeats until 2008.
Bobby Rivers Death and Obituary
Rivers was diagnosed with cancer in 2020, and underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments. He continued to work and write, sharing his insights and opinions on his blog and social media. He also wrote a memoir, titled Bobby Rivers: A Life in the Spotlight, which was published in 2022. He revealed his struggles and triumphs as a gay and Black man in the entertainment industry, and his experiences with racism, homophobia, and ageism. He also expressed his gratitude for his fans and friends, who supported him throughout his career and his illness.
Rivers passed away peacefully at his home in Minneapolis, Minnesota, surrounded by his loved ones. He is survived by his partner of 25 years, Mark Johnson, and his adopted son, Jamal. He also leaves behind a legion of fans and admirers, who remember him for his charisma, his kindness, and his laughter.
Many celebrities and colleagues paid tribute to Bobby on social media, sharing their memories and condolences. Whoopi Goldberg, who worked with Rivers on her radio show Wake Up with Whoopi, wrote: “Bobby was a dear friend and a brilliant talent. He made me laugh so hard and taught me so much. He was a pioneer and a trailblazer. He will be missed by so many. Rest in peace, Bobby.”
Dolly Parton, who was one of Rivers’ favorite guests, posted a video message, saying: “Rivers was a sweet and wonderful man, who always made me feel welcome and special. He was a great interviewer and a great entertainer. He loved life and he loved people. He was a ray of sunshine in this world. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. God bless you, Bobby.”
Rivers’ funeral will be held on January 2, 2024, at the Riverside Church in New York City. It will be open to the public, and will feature performances and speeches by some of his closest friends and colleagues. A memorial fund has been set up in his name, to support aspiring journalists and entertainers from marginalized communities.
Bobby Rivers was a television icon, who touched the lives of millions with his charm, his wit, and his heart. He was a pioneer, who broke barriers and opened doors for others. He was a legend, who left a lasting legacy of love and laughter. He will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
