V103 is reporting that Chicago radio legend Herb Kent has passed away at the age of 88. V103, Herb’s recording home, released a statement moments ago confirming Kent’s death, relaying that the icon passed away just hours after recording what would be his final V103 broadcast on Saturday morning.
Our condolences go out to the loved ones of Herb, and we thank him for his years of service and joy he brought the Chicagoland area. He will be truly missed.
R.I.P. to the Cool Gent
iHeartMedia Chicago has released a statement:
Herb Kent passed away on Saturday evening. No words can express our great sense of loss. Herb was an iconic talent, who for nearly 70 years entertained millions of listeners in Chicagoland and around the world. His passion for radio and work ethic was second-to-none as Herb worked to the very end, by hosting what unexpectedly was his final V103 broadcast on Saturday morning.
Herb leaves a legacy of thousands of entertainers he helped boost, community causes he impacted, and as a former instructor at Chicago State University, sharing his encyclopedic knowledge with hundreds of students.
We are so thankful for the privilege of working alongside such an historic figure as Herb Kent for the past 27 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Herb’s family, friends, and loved ones.
– Matt Scarano, Region President iHeartMedia Chicago
Herb was our radio superhero. While I’m incredibly sad, I hold so much joy remembering the fun times we’ve had with him and the smiles he brought to our faces. Herb will hold an eternal place in our hearts.
– Derrick Brown, Director of Urban Programming iHeartMedia Chicago