Bob Kelly, the celebrated American journalist and Emmy Award-winning TV personality, is a familiar face to many in the Philadelphia area. As the beloved Traffic Anchor and Feature Reporter at Fox 29, he has endeared himself to viewers with his charismatic on-screen presence and informative traffic updates. His career has spanned decades, and his contributions to the world of broadcasting are nothing short of remarkable. In this biography, we will take a closer look at the life and journey of Bob Kelly, affectionately known as “The Dean of Traffic.”
| Full Name | Bob Kelly |
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1963 |
| Birthplace | Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Education | Graduated from Temple University |
| Early Career | Started as a radio DJ and worked with Jerry Blavat |
| Career Transition | Transitioned to traffic reporting at KYW News Radio |
| Unique Style | Known for animated and humorous traffic reporting |
| Nickname | “The Dean of Traffic” for pioneering green screen live traffic reporting |
| Annual Segment | Hosts “A Very Kelly Christmas” during December |
| Professional Awards | Emmy Award-winning Traffic Anchor at Fox 29 |
| Family | Married to Carrie Howard with four sons |
| Previous Marriage | Previously married to Colleen with two daughters |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $1 million to $5 million |
| Social Media Presence | Instagram: 52.2k followers, Twitter: 42k followers, Facebook: over 99k followers |
Early Life and Education
Bob Kelly’s story begins in Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he was born on February 11, 1963. Although he keeps much of his personal life away from the limelight, one thing is clear: he has a deep connection to the area where he was raised. This deep-rooted familiarity with local streets, neighborhoods, and landmarks would later become a hallmark of his career.
Bob Kelly attended North Catholic High School and went on to graduate from Temple University, where he laid the foundation for his future in the world of broadcasting.
Career Beginnings as a Radio DJ
Bob Kelly’s journey in the entertainment industry started as a radio disc jockey. He worked with the legendary Jerry Blavat, known as “The Geator,” in the early days of his career. His charm, charisma, and entertaining skills quickly gained recognition in the industry, setting the stage for his future success.
Transition to Traffic Reporting
After making a name for himself as a radio DJ, Bob Kelly transitioned to the field of traffic reporting. He joined KYW News Radio, where he provided traffic updates, honing his skills as a communicator and broadcaster. This transition marked the beginning of a career that would ultimately make him a household name in Philadelphia.
Bob Kelly’s Unique Style
One of the key aspects of Bob Kelly’s career is his unique and animated style of delivering traffic updates. Known for popular catchphrases like “Jammo,” “Two Jelly Donut Delay,” and “The Conshy Curve,” he brought a refreshing and engaging approach to what could be a mundane subject. Bob’s enthusiasm and sense of humor not only made traffic reports informative but also highly entertaining.
He is often referred to as “The Dean of Traffic,” a title he rightfully earned for his pioneering approach to live traffic reporting in front of a green screen. This innovation was a game-changer in the field and set him apart as a trailblazer.
Marriage and Family
Bob Kelly’s personal life has seen its share of changes and experiences. He is currently married to his second wife, Carrie Howard, a Certified Child Life Specialist. Together, they are proud parents to four sons.
Before his current marriage, Bob was married to Colleen, with whom he has two daughters. Their marriage ended in divorce on March 10, 2008. While his personal life has had its ups and downs, Bob’s commitment to his family and children remains evident.
Very Kelly Christmas
One of the highlights of Bob Kelly’s career is his holiday segment, “A Very Kelly Christmas.” This annual tradition captures the spirit of the season as Bob broadcasts live from lavishly decorated homes in Northeast Philadelphia during December. It has become a beloved tradition for many viewers, bringing holiday cheer and showcasing the festive spirit of the local community.
Professional Achievements and Recognition
Over the years, Bob Kelly’s career has been filled with achievements and accolades. His work as a Traffic Anchor and Feature Reporter at Fox 29 has earned him an Emmy Award, a testament to his dedication and excellence in broadcasting.
In addition to his traffic reporting, Bob has contributed significantly to the success of the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade for over 15 years. His charismatic presence and ability to connect with the audience have made him a favorite among parade-goers.
Net Worth
Bob Kelly’s financial success as a journalist is notable. His estimated net worth ranges from $1 million to $5 million, primarily earned from his broadcasting career. His annual salary reflects his contributions and expertise in the field and can range from approximately $45,000 to $110,500.
Active Social Media Presence
In the current digital age, Bob Kelly actively maintains his social media presence. He has garnered a considerable following across various platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. As of 2024, his social media following stands at 52.2k followers on Instagram, 42k followers on Twitter, and over 99k followers on Facebook. Through these platforms, he consistently interacts with his audience, sharing updates on both his professional and personal life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Bob Kelly born?
Bob Kelly was born in Northeast Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
What is Bob Kelly’s educational background?
Bob Kelly attended North Catholic High School and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Temple University.
How many children does he have?
Bob Kelly is a proud father of six children, including four sons with his current wife, Carrie Howard, and two daughters from his previous marriage to Colleen.
What is his estimated net worth?
His estimated net worth falls in the range of $1 million to $5 million, primarily earned through his career as a Traffic Anchor and Feature Reporter.
What are some of his catchphrases as a traffic reporter?
He is known for popular catchphrases like “Jammo,” “Two Jelly Donut Delay,” and “The Conshy Curve.”
What are Bob Kelly’s contributions to the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade?
Bob Kelly has co-hosted the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade for over 15 years, contributing to the event’s success with his charismatic presence.
Final thoughts
In closing, Bob Kelly’s journey in the world of broadcasting has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a radio DJ to becoming “The Dean of Traffic” with his pioneering approach to live traffic reporting, he has left an indelible mark on the field. His engaging and entertaining style, combined with his commitment to his family and community, have made him a beloved figure in Philadelphia and beyond.
