Radio Legend Bob Kevoian Dies at 75

The co-host of the long-running 'The Bob & Tom Show' was a pioneer of the 'overheard conversation' style of radio comedy.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:13am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring stark black silhouettes of two figures against a vibrant red background, conceptually representing the lasting impact of a pioneering radio duo.The iconic comedic partnership of Bob Kevoian and Tom Griswold left an indelible mark on American radio.Petoskey Today

Bob Kevoian, the co-host of the nationally syndicated radio program 'The Bob & Tom Show,' has passed away at the age of 75. Kevoian and his longtime partner Tom Griswold built their show from a local Indianapolis effort in 1983 to a national powerhouse by 1995, mirroring the industry's shift towards scalable, syndicated content. In his later years, Kevoian also launched a personal podcast 'The Bob & Cancer Show' to document his battle with gastric cancer, showcasing a new era of vulnerability in media.

Why it matters

Kevoian and Griswold's 'The Bob & Tom Show' served as a blueprint for the evolution of American radio, transitioning from hyper-local content to a nationally syndicated brand. Their 'overheard conversation' style of comedy also influenced the rise of intimate, authentic podcasting. Kevoian's legacy extends beyond the microphone, as he mentored the next generation of broadcasters and left an indelible mark on the industry.

The details

Starting in 1983 at WFBQ in Indianapolis, 'The Bob & Tom Show' gradually expanded its reach, becoming nationally syndicated by 1995. This shift mirrored a broader trend in the radio industry, as local programs gave way to scalable, syndicated brands. In his later years, Kevoian launched a personal podcast called 'The Bob & Cancer Show' to document his three-year battle with gastric cancer, providing a raw, vulnerable look at his health journey.

  • The Bob & Tom Show launched in 1983 at WFBQ in Indianapolis.
  • The show became nationally syndicated in 1995.
  • Kevoian launched 'The Bob & Cancer Show' podcast in 2023 to document his battle with gastric cancer.
  • Bob Kevoian passed away on April 18, 2026 at the age of 75.

The players

Bob Kevoian

The co-host of the long-running 'The Bob & Tom Show,' Kevoian was a pioneering figure in American radio known for his comedic partnership with Tom Griswold and his later personal podcast documenting his cancer battle.

Tom Griswold

Kevoian's longtime co-host on 'The Bob & Tom Show,' Griswold described their on-air chemistry as a 'conversation between two friends — not heard, but overheard.'

Pat McAfee

A prominent industry figure who has highlighted the mentorship and guidance provided by veteran broadcasters like Kevoian to the next generation of talent.

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What they’re saying

“The secret to the longevity of successful comedy pairings is often the feeling of intimacy. Tom Griswold described the chemistry of his partnership with Kevoian as a 'conversation between two friends — not heard, but overheard.'”

— Tom Griswold, Co-host, The Bob & Tom Show

“Industry figures like Pat McAfee have highlighted how the influence of veteran broadcasters extends beyond the microphone, providing guidance and belief in the next generation of talent.”

— Pat McAfee

What’s next

The radio industry continues to evolve, with the legacy of pioneers like Bob Kevoian serving as a foundation for the next generation of creators. As the medium shifts further towards digital platforms, the 'overheard conversation' style championed by Kevoian and Griswold remains a powerful approach for building authentic connections with audiences.

The takeaway

Bob Kevoian's career exemplifies the transformative impact a pioneering broadcaster can have, not just through their on-air work, but also by mentoring and inspiring the next wave of talent. His ability to blend sharp comedic wit with genuine vulnerability made him a beloved figure in the industry, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of radio and podcasting.