On December 26, 2023, the entertainment industry lost a towering figure, Bobby Rivers, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Rivers, a versatile media personality known for his work as a television host, film critic, and radio host, died at the age of 70.
Betsy Rivers, Bobby’s sister, confirmed the news of his demise on Facebook. She mentioned to Fox News Digital that his cancer had metastasized to his lungs, and he had suffered minor strokes, as evidenced by the MRI.
Rivers, born in Southern California in 1953, was a pioneer in media diversity. He became Milwaukee’s first Black television film critic in 1979. He began his broadcasting career in the 1970s at WQFM station in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after graduating from Marquette University. His innovative work as a film critic earned him immense recognition and respect.
With a career marked by numerous milestones, Rivers was one of the first African American contestants and one of the youngest winners on the syndicated game show “The Movie Game” in the 1970s. He relocated to New York City, New York in the 1980s, working as an entertainment reporter for WPIX-TV before joining VH1 as a VJ in 1987. He hosted the celebrity interview show “Watch Bobby Rivers” on VH1, speaking with renowned figures such as Paul McCartney, Meryl Streep, and Mel Gibson.
Alongside his VH1 stint, Rivers made significant contributions to the Food Network, hosting “Top 5” in the early 2000s. He also ventured into acting, making appearances in popular TV shows like “The Equalizer” and “The Sopranos.”
Despite his professional triumphs, Rivers faced daunting challenges, including racial and homophobic attacks. In a 2023 interview with Our Lives Wisconsin, he shared his experiences of receiving hate mail and voicemails, some marked with swastikas, illustrating the darker side of fame.
Beyond his on-camera roles, Rivers was a passionate advocate for media diversity, contributing insightful essays and views to various platforms, including his blog. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans, with personalities like Whoopi Goldberg, Katie Couric, and Mario Cantone expressing their grief and admiration for Rivers.
Turner Classic Movies acknowledged Rivers’ contributions, emphasizing his enthusiasm and expertise as a film enthusiast and his involvement with the #TCMParty community.
The legacy of Bobby Rivers, as a trailblazer and advocate for diversity in the media industry, will undoubtedly inspire future generations. Known for his charismatic aura, insightful critiques, and unyielding commitment to his profession, Rivers has left an indelible imprint on the entertainment world.
