Wally Kennedy Cause of Death: For the 6abc family and many local TV viewers, Wednesday was a depressing day. Longtime host of “AM Philadelphia” and “AM Live” at 6abc, Wally Kennedy, passed away. He was seventy-six.
For decades, fans in Philadelphia saw him present the show every morning, which covered everything from entertainment to true crime to the social scene in the city.
Amy Buckman, a former reporter for 6abc, talked about her experience working with her mentor Wally ‘AM Philadelphia.’ She recalled his interviewing style, which he used to bring out the best in his visitors.
“He listened really well. He would pay attention to what his subjects had to say. She clarified that the interviews would become much more candid and intimate.
Wally also changed as the show changed to ‘Philly After Midnight,’ giving it a late-night feel. Wally frequently interviewed some of the top names in Philadelphia and beyond in addition to the lighter material.
Wally had conversations with the late John Ritter, comedian Rosie O’Donnell, and even Prince Albert of Monaco, whose mother, Grace Kelly, was from Philadelphia.
Bernie Prazenica, the general manager and president of 6abc, recalled Wally as a key figure in Action News.