Detroit Bids Farewell to a Broadcasting Icon: Warren Pierce, Dead at 82

Detroit is mourning the loss of a truly legendary voice, Warren Pierce, who passed away at 82, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of nearly four decades in radio and television.

TL;DR

• Longtime Detroit radio host and TV anchor Warren Pierce died on October 31, 2025, at the age of 82.
• Pierce was best known for his nearly 40-year career at 760 WJR and as an anchor at Fox 2 Detroit, having interviewed over 70,000 people.
• He was a passionate supporter of University of Michigan football and a devoted animal lover, leaving an enduring impression on listeners across the state.

A Voice That Connected Thousands: Reflecting on Warren Pierce's Impact

Imagine the sheer number of conversations you have in a lifetime. Now, picture having 70,000 of them – not just casual chats, but in-depth interviews with everyone from authors to politicians, celebrities to everyday newsmakers. That was the extraordinary career of Warren Pierce, a beloved Detroit broadcaster who sadly passed away on October 31, 2025, at the age of 82. His distinctive voice and genuine curiosity resonated with listeners for decades, making him a true fixture in Michigan media.

Pierce, a Detroit native, dedicated nearly 40 years to the airwaves, primarily at 760 WJR. His program, "The Warren Pierce Show," became synonymous with wide-ranging interviews and energetic storytelling. Whether he was broadcasting live from across Michigan or covering events like the Grand Prix in Monaco or the Academy Awards in Los Angeles, Pierce had a knack for bringing the world directly to his audience. He even covered the 1986 royal wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in London, showcasing his global reach.

"I love my listeners, and they care about me."— Warren Pierce, in 2020, to the Free Press.

From Radio Waves to Television Screens: Pierce's Enduring Media Presence

Beyond his prolific radio career, Pierce also made his mark in television, serving as a morning news anchor on WJBK-TV (Channel 2), now known as Fox 2 Detroit. This dual role further cemented his reputation as one of the region’s most recognizable broadcasters. Colleagues and fans admired his professionalism and his unwavering commitment to his craft, no matter the medium.

His interviews weren't just about facts; they were about connection. Pierce's friendly, upbeat style created an environment where guests felt comfortable sharing, and listeners felt like they were part of the conversation. In the 1990s, before the digital age made contact lists easy, Pierce reportedly kept four huge Rolodexes filled with his professional contacts, a testament to his dedication to networking and his craft. Source: [Detroit Free Press, "Detroit Radio legend WJR mainstay Warren Pierce dies at 82," November 2, 2025].

Beyond the Broadcast Booth: A Man of Passion

While his professional life was a whirlwind of interviews and broadcasts, Warren Pierce held deep personal passions close to his heart. He was an ardent supporter of the University of Michigan and its football team, even doing sideline reporting for WJR’s coverage of Wolverines games during the era of legendary coach Bo Schembechler. This wasn't just a casual fandom; it was a genuine enthusiasm that many listeners shared and appreciated.

But perhaps even more notable was his profound love for animals, particularly golden retrievers. His obituary specifically mentions his beloved dog, Duke, who provided him with immense comfort and companionship. This passion wasn't just a private affair; it was an open part of his persona that allowed listeners to connect with him on a more personal level.

Example: Picture a chilly Saturday morning, Warren Pierce on the air, transitioning from a serious interview to a lighthearted story about Duke chasing squirrels in the backyard. A listener, perhaps driving to their own dog park with their golden retriever, smiles knowingly, feeling a shared bond. That ability to weave personal warmth into his professional persona was a hallmark of Pierce’s appeal, making him feel less like a distant broadcaster and more like a trusted friend.

Navigating Shifting Tides: Career Challenges and Returns

Pierce's long career wasn't without its shifts. In 1993, he parted ways with WJR as the landscape of talk radio began to change, moving towards more confrontational, politically driven programming popularized by hosts like Rush Limbaugh. This represented a shift from the amiable, broad-ranging discussions Pierce was known for, highlighting the evolving nature of the industry.

Later, in 1995, he also separated from WJBK-TV (Fox 2 Detroit) after news broke about him taking free loans of cars from automakers. Pierce defended the practice, comparing it to "reading a book before interviewing an author," stating he never promised coverage in return. Source: [Detroit News, as cited in Detroit Free Press, "Detroit radio legend WJR mainstay Warren Pierce dies at 82," November 2, 2025]. This period shows the trade-offs public figures sometimes face in maintaining both integrity and industry relationships, and how transparency can be perceived differently.

Despite these challenges, Pierce’s dedication to broadcasting remained strong. He worked at other radio stations, including WYUR-AM, before rejoining WJR in 2000, where he remained until 2019. He even had a brief stint with a weekend show on WDFN-AM after that, demonstrating his enduring commitment to his passion and his audience.

A Legacy of Connection and Family

In his later years, Pierce continued to connect with his audience, even after his regular radio shifts. On September 6, 2024, he posted on his Facebook page, "The Warren Pierce Show," to announce he would have to stop his weekend updates due to "serious medical news." He expressed how much he would miss his followers, showing his deep appreciation for the community he built. Source: [Warren Pierce Facebook page, "The Warren Pierce Show," September 6, 2024].

Warren Pierce is survived by his four daughters – Karen Rosett, Meredith Block, Alexandra Taves, and Samantha Pierce – and four grandchildren. His obituary also notes that he maintained close relationships with his former wives, Darlene Sosnick and Jacquelyn Pierce, who were significant parts of his life. This speaks to a man who valued family connections deeply, extending that warmth beyond the studio.

Funeral Services and Tributes

A funeral service for Warren Pierce will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, at the Dorfman Chapel, located at 30440 W. 12 Mile Rd. in Farmington Hills. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be broadcast through a live stream. In lieu of flowers, donations in Warren Pierce’s honor can be made to the Golden Retriever Rescue of Michigan, a fitting tribute to his lifelong love for animals.

Practical Takeaways from Warren Pierce's Enduring Career

• Cultivate Genuine Connection: Pierce's success stemmed from his ability to make listeners feel heard and engaged, a valuable lesson for any communicator.
• Embrace Curiosity: His knack for wide-ranging interviews highlights the power of genuine interest in diverse topics and people.
• Stay True to Your Passions: His love for U of M football and animals allowed audiences to connect with his authentic self.
• Adapt and Endure: Despite industry shifts, Pierce found ways to continue his craft, showcasing resilience in a changing media landscape.

FAQ: Your Questions About Warren Pierce's Passing

When and where will Warren Pierce's funeral service be held?

The funeral service for Warren Pierce is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4, at the Dorfman Chapel at 30440 W. 12 Mile Rd. in Farmington Hills. The service will also be available via live stream.

What was Warren Pierce best known for in his broadcasting career?

Warren Pierce was primarily known for his nearly 40-year tenure at 760 WJR, where he hosted "The Warren Pierce Show," and for his time as an anchor at Fox 2 Detroit. He was celebrated for his friendly interview style and having conducted over 70,000 interviews.

What were some of Warren Pierce's personal interests outside of broadcasting?

Outside the studio, Warren Pierce was a dedicated fan of University of Michigan football and had a deep affection for animals, especially golden retrievers, including his beloved dog, Duke.

Are there any charitable causes suggested for donations in his memory?

Yes, his obituary suggests that donations in Warren Pierce's honor can be made to the Golden Retriever Rescue of Michigan.

Sources

• WXYZ Web Team, "Longtime Detroit broadcaster Warren Pierce dies at 82," WXYZ Detroit 7 Action News, November 2, 2025.
• Dylan Siwicki, "Detroit Radio Icon Dead At 82," Patch Staff, November 3, 2025.
• WJR Staff, "Detroit Broadcasting Icon Warren Pierce Dies at 82," 760 WJR, November 2, 2025.
• Julie Hinds, "Detroit radio legend WJR mainstay Warren Pierce dies at 82," Detroit Free Press, November 2, 2025.