Bob Kevoian Dies at 75: ‘Bob & Tom Show’ Co-Founder Passes Away After Cancer Battle

Bob Kevoian Dies at 75: ‘Bob & Tom Show’ Co-Founder Passes Away After Cancer Battle

Bob Kevoian, the longtime co-host and co-creator of the nationally syndicated “Bob & Tom Show,” has died at the age of 75 after a prolonged battle with cancer. The show confirmed that Kevoian passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 17, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

His death marks a significant moment for both Indianapolis and the broader American radio industry, where Kevoian’s voice became a daily fixture for millions of listeners over more than three decades.

Kevoian had been battling cancer for the past three years. In 2023, he publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed earlier that spring, later sharing that it was gastric cancer. Despite the diagnosis, he remained open and candid about his journey, using his platform to support others facing similar challenges.

From Indianapolis roots to national radio success

Kevoian’s broadcasting legacy began in 1983 when he teamed up with Tom Griswold to launch “The Bob & Tom Show” on Indianapolis station WFBQ. What started as a local morning radio program quickly found its identity through humor, music, and unscripted conversation.

The chemistry between Kevoian and Griswold became the show’s defining strength. Their approach — conversational, relaxed, and often irreverent — stood apart from traditional radio formats at the time.

By 1995, the show had expanded into national syndication, reaching audiences across the United States and becoming one of the most successful morning radio programs in the country. Over the years, it built a loyal following and helped define modern talk radio.

Kevoian retired from the show in November 2015 after 32 years on air, coinciding with a major milestone in his career — induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame alongside Griswold.

The program itself earned numerous honors during its run, including the prestigious Marconi Award, considered the highest recognition in radio, and the Kurt Vonnegut Humor Award.

A personal battle shared with listeners

Even after stepping away from daily broadcasting, Kevoian maintained a connection with audiences. Following his cancer diagnosis in 2023, he launched a podcast titled “The Bob & Cancer Show” with his wife Becky and close friend Whit Grayson.

The podcast served as both a personal journal and a support platform, focusing on the emotional and mental aspects of a cancer diagnosis. Kevoian spoke openly about treatment, fear, and resilience, while also sharing practical advice on staying positive, setting goals, and maintaining perspective.

According to WTHR, Kevoian had been battling the illness for several years, yet continued to engage with fans and listeners throughout that time.

Known for his humor even in difficult moments, Kevoian once joked that his biggest concern after his diagnosis was losing his iconic mustache, which he said had been part of his identity for more than five decades. “Good news,” he said at the time, “the mustache stayed put.”

Remembering a defining voice in radio

Tributes poured in following the announcement of his death, with colleagues and fans remembering not just his career achievements but also his personality and presence.

Tom Griswold, his longtime co-host, reflected on their decades together, describing the show as “a conversation between two friends — not heard, but overheard.” That simple idea became the foundation of a format that resonated with generations of listeners.

Kevoian’s style was never about dominating the spotlight. Instead, he brought a steady, grounded presence that balanced the show’s energy. His voice, delivery, and timing helped shape the identity of “The Bob & Tom Show” and made it a consistent part of listeners’ daily routines.

Listeners also remember the small but distinctive details — his Los Angeles Dodgers cap, his signature mustache, and his ability to find humor in everyday life.

After retiring in 2015, Kevoian shifted his focus to personal life, traveling across the country with Becky in their Airstream RV and enjoying a slower pace. Those years allowed him to step away from the demands of daily broadcasting while still staying connected to his audience in new ways.

The impact of his work, however, never faded. The show he helped build continues to air, and the format he pioneered remains influential in both radio and podcasting.

Kevoian’s career was defined not just by longevity but by consistency — showing up every morning, connecting with listeners, and creating a space where humor and conversation felt natural and unforced.

His passing leaves a noticeable gap in the world of radio, but also a lasting legacy that continues through the show, the voices he influenced, and the audiences he reached over decades.

Details regarding memorial services are expected to be announced at a later time. For now, fans across the country are remembering Bob Kevoian as a familiar voice who turned ordinary mornings into something shared, personal, and often unforgettable.

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