Food Network and VH1 Host, Bobby Rivers, Passes Away at 70
Bobby Rivers, a well-known TV host and film critic, who delighted and educated millions of viewers through his shows on the Food Network and VH1, passed away on December 26, 2023, at the age of 70. Rivers was a trailblazer in the media, being both African-American and openly gay. His charismatic and versatile personality, coupled with his love for food and movies, left a lasting impact. He will be remembered as a pioneer, a star, and a friend.
Bobby Rivers Dies at 70
Bobby Rivers, known for hosting Top 5 on the Food Network and Watch Bobby Rivers on VH1, passed away at his home in Minneapolis on December 26, 2023, as reported by WISN. His sister, Betsy Rivers, also confirmed the news. He was 70 years old.
In addition, Rivers was a lively and charming person who had a varied and extensive career in TV, radio, and movies. He was famous for his clever and entertaining interviews with celebrities, his funny and thoughtful commentary on entertainment and culture, and his love for food and movies.
A Versatile Personality on TV and Radio
Rivers was born in 1953 and spent his childhood in South Central Los Angeles during the challenging 1960s. After graduating from Marquette University in Wisconsin, he began his professional television career in 1979 on Milwaukee’s ABC affiliate, WISN-TV. There, he became the city's first African-American film critic on TV.
Bobby Rivers was a personality on American television and radio, as well as an actor and film critic. In 1985, he relocated to New York City and started working as a VJ for VH1 in 1987. He quickly landed his own prime-time celebrity talk show, Watch Bobby Rivers, where he had interviews with Hollywood's biggest names, including Paul McCartney, Meryl Streep, Mel Gibson, Jodie Foster, and Liza Minnelli. Additionally, he co-hosted segments with Rosie O’Donnell, who was a new face on the network at that time.
Rivers hosted two game shows that were broadcast across the country: Bedroom Buddies and The Movie Game. He worked as an entertainment reporter for various local stations, including WPIX-TV, WNBC-TV, and WNYW-TV.
In addition, he made an appearance on the HBO series The Sopranos as himself and served as the entertainment editor on Lifetime Live, a weekday magazine hour from ABC News/Lifetime TV.
The Host of Top 5 & a Movie Critic
In 2002, Rivers started hosting Top 5 on the Food Network. The show counted down the best dishes, restaurants, and chefs in different categories. He shared his love for food and his sense of humor as he tried various cuisines and chatted with culinary experts and fans. The show continued until 2004 and was rerun until 2008.
Rivers began hosting the show Top 5 on the Food Network back in 2002. Rivers loved movies and reviewed them for different places, like Premiere Radio. He collaborated with Whoopi Goldberg on her national weekday morning show, Wake Up with Whoopi. Additionally, he had a blog named Bobby Rivers TV where he expressed his thoughts and views on movies, TV shows, and celebrities.
A Beloved & Respected Figure
Rivers earned widespread admiration and respect from his colleagues, peers, and fans because of his professionalism, talent, and personality. People appreciated his skill in connecting with guests and the audience, his passion and knowledge about various topics, and his upbeat attitude.
The impact of Bobby Rivers on the LGBTQ community.
In addition, he broke new ground in the industry, challenging stereotypes as an African-American and openly gay man. Rivers served as an inspiration and mentor for many aspiring and established media personalities, particularly those from marginalized and underrepresented groups.
Rivers is survived by his sister, Betsy Rivers, his brother, James Rivers, and his nieces and nephews. His family, friends, and fans will miss him greatly. He will be remembered as a leader, a star, and a friend.
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