Bob Kevoian, the beloved co-founder and longtime co-host of the nationally syndicated Bob & Tom Show, died peacefully at his home on April 18, 2026, at the age of 75. Surrounded by his family and friends, Kevoian’s passing marks the end of an era for American radio, where his voice and humor shaped the mornings of millions for more than three decades. The news was first shared in a heartfelt social media post by The Bob and Tom Show and later confirmed by multiple outlets, including WTHR-TV in Indianapolis and WTVO.
Kevoian’s death follows a three-year battle with gastric cancer, a diagnosis he made public in 2023. Rather than withdrawing entirely from the public eye after receiving the news, Kevoian chose to channel his experience into a new project: a podcast titled The Bob & Cancer Show. Through this intimate series, he documented his journey with cancer and offered support and encouragement to others facing similar diagnoses. According to WTVO, this endeavor was emblematic of Kevoian’s enduring spirit and his commitment to connecting with listeners, even in the face of profound personal challenges.
“It was always a conversation between two friends — not heard, but overheard,” Tom Griswold, Kevoian’s longtime radio partner, said in a statement following his death. This simple philosophy was at the heart of The Bob & Tom Show and helped distinguish it from the more shock-driven radio formats that dominated the airwaves in the 1980s and 1990s. The show’s unique blend of comedy, talk, news, and sports found a devoted following, first in Indianapolis and then across the nation.
The story of Kevoian’s partnership with Griswold began in the late 1970s in Petoskey, Michigan. At the time, Kevoian was working as a sound engineer, and Griswold was a fellow broadcaster. Their paths crossed at WBMN, a small station in the area, where they quickly realized their comedic chemistry and shared ambitions. The duo spent three years in Petoskey, even moving together to a rival station before ultimately deciding to take their act to a larger market.
In March 1983, Kevoian and Griswold launched their morning show at WFBQ “Q95” in Indianapolis. The program was an instant hit, quickly gaining a reputation for its irreverent humor, clever sketches, and the easy camaraderie between its hosts. By January 1995, The Bob & Tom Show had struck a syndication deal with Premiere Networks, catapulting the program to national fame. According to WTHR-TV, the show’s reach expanded further in 2014 when Cumulus Media Networks assumed syndication responsibilities.
Kevoian’s creative influence was felt in every corner of the show. Over the years, he produced and oversaw thousands of comedy bits, sketches, and parody songs. He also played a key role in developing the show’s off-air ventures, including Bob & Tom Radio: The Comedy Tour and The Bob and Tom Show Home Movie. These projects extended the brand’s reach beyond radio, drawing in fans from across the country and cementing the show’s place in American pop culture.
Despite the comedic tone that defined much of his work, Kevoian was known for his warmth and generosity off the air. Colleagues and listeners alike remember him as a mentor, a friend, and a consummate professional. His decision to retire in December 2015 was met with an outpouring of affection from fans, many of whom had grown up with his voice as a morning companion. Even after stepping away from the microphone, Kevoian’s legacy endured, with the show continuing under the same name and spirit.
Kevoian’s impact on the radio industry is difficult to overstate. In an era when many morning shows relied on controversy and shock value, The Bob & Tom Show offered something different — a space for laughter, camaraderie, and the kind of relatable conversation that made listeners feel like part of the family. The show’s success inspired countless imitators, but few could replicate the genuine rapport that Kevoian and Griswold shared.
For those who followed Kevoian’s journey with cancer, his openness about his diagnosis and treatment was both courageous and comforting. By launching The Bob & Cancer Show, he invited listeners into his private struggles, turning vulnerability into strength and fostering a sense of community among those facing similar battles. According to WTVO, Kevoian’s willingness to share his story helped reduce the stigma around cancer and encouraged others to seek support.
As news of Kevoian’s death spread, tributes poured in from across the broadcasting world. Many credited him with revolutionizing morning radio and setting a new standard for authenticity and humor. Others remembered him as a devoted family man and a steadfast friend. Details regarding memorial services have not yet been announced, but it’s clear that Kevoian’s influence will be felt for years to come.
Kevoian was a graduate of California State University-Long Beach, a detail that speaks to his West Coast roots even as he became a fixture in the Midwest radio scene. He is survived by his family, who were by his side at the time of his passing. The Bob & Tom Show continues to air in markets across the United States, a testament to the enduring appeal of the format that Kevoian helped create.
Looking back on a career that spanned more than thirty years, Kevoian’s contributions to radio and comedy are undeniable. He leaves behind not only a trove of classic bits and sketches but also a legacy of kindness, resilience, and creativity. For those who tuned in each morning, laughed at a parody song, or found solace in his words during difficult times, Bob Kevoian’s voice will not soon be forgotten.
As the radio world mourns one of its giants, listeners everywhere are left with memories of a man who made them laugh, think, and — above all — feel a little less alone on the journey. Bob Kevoian’s story is one of partnership, perseverance, and the power of a good conversation. And for that, his audience will always be grateful.