Bobby Rivers, a prominent figure in the world of entertainment renowned for his innovative contributions as a TV host, film critic, and radio personality, died on December 26, 2023, at the age of 70 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Betsy Rivers, his sister, confirmed his death on Facebook and indicated that Bobby was now at peace. She informed Fox News Digital that “His cancer had metastasized to his lungs, and he experienced several mini-strokes, as shown by the MRI.”
Rivers, who was born in Southern California in 1953, made history as the first Black film critic on television in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1979. After graduating from Marquette University, he began his broadcasting career at Milwaukee’s WQFM station in the 1970s. His pioneering role as a film critic on television earned him widespread recognition.
The career of Rivers was marked by many achievements and firsts. He was among the first African American contestants and youngest winners on the syndicated game show “The Movie Game” in the 1970s. He then relocated to New York City in the 1980s, where he worked as an entertainment reporter for WPIX-TV before joining VH1 as a VJ in 1987. Rivers hosted his own celebrity interview show, “Watch Bobby Rivers,” on VH1, where he interviewed celebrities like Paul McCartney, Meryl Streep, and Mel Gibson.
Rivers also had an impact on the Food Network, where he hosted the brief series “Top 5” in the early 2000s. His career included acting, with roles in popular TV series such as “The Equalizer” and “The Sopranos.”
Despite his achievements, Rivers had to confront challenges, including racist and homophobic abuse, as he revealed in a July 2023 interview with Our Lives Wisconsin. He described receiving hate mail, including some marked with swastikas, and offensive voicemails, revealing the less glamorous side of fame.
Rivers’ influence went beyond his on-screen roles. He championed diversity in media and shared his insights and thoughtful essays on various platforms, including his blog. Notable figures including Whoopi Goldberg, Katie Couric, and Mario Cantone paid tribute to Rivers, expressing their sadness and admiration following his death.
Turner Classic Movies also acknowledged Rivers’ contributions, emphasizing his passion and knowledge as a film enthusiast and his involvement with the #TCMParty community.
The legacy of Bobby Rivers as a groundbreaking figure in the entertainment industry, particularly for his advocacy for diversity and his role as a Black, queer media personality, will continue to be a source of inspiration for future generations. His charming demeanor, insightful critiques, and unwavering commitment to his profession have left a lasting impact on the entertainment world.
