Bob Kelly Life : What You Didn’t See on TV

June 15, 2025
 Joseph John
Written By Joseph John

I'm Joseph John, an entertainment writer with 5 years of experience in the showbiz industry.

When you tune into FOX 29 Philadelphia every morning, one face you’re sure to recognize is Bob Kelly, the Emmy Award-winning Philadelphia traffic reporter known for his lively updates on Good Day Philadelphia.

But beyond the quick traffic fixes and entertaining segments like Breakfast with Bob or the Kelly Drives show, there’s much more to Bob Kelly’s life in 2025 that most viewers don’t get to see on TV.

This article dives deep into his personal story, career milestones and what truly makes him a beloved local celebrity in the City of Brotherly Love.

Quick Profile : Bob Kelly at a Glance

Bob Kelly is a staple of Philadelphia local news, blending a rich history of radio and television with an engaging on-air personality.

He’s best known as a FOX 29 traffic reporter, hosting segments like Town Takeover FOX 29 and bringing humor and charm to everyday traffic updates.

His career spans decades, including stints at CBS 3 Philadelphia and KYW News Radio.

AttributeDetails
OccupationTraffic Reporter, On-Air Personality
Current StationFOX 29 Philadelphia
Notable ShowsGood Day Philadelphia, Kelly Drives show
Height5 feet 7 inches
Estimated Net Worth (2025)$1 million – $5 million
Annual Salary$45,000 – $110,000
FamilyWife Carrie Kelly, 6 children, 2 grandchildren
EducationNorth Catholic High School, Temple University
ResidenceMalvern, Pennsylvania

Bob Kelly’s Early Life and Background

Born and raised in Northeast Philadelphia, Bob Kelly’s deep roots in the city have played a huge role in shaping his career and personality.

He attended North Catholic High School and later graduated from Temple University, where he polished his communication skills and developed a passion for journalism.

His early exposure to Philadelphia’s neighborhoods and culture helped him become the perfect voice for the city’s daily stories.

Bob’s beginnings weren’t on TV but behind the microphone as a radio disc jockey in Philadelphia.

His time at various popular radio stations honed his ability to engage listeners, making him a natural fit for broadcasting.

This early experience provided the foundation that would support his successful transition into television and eventually into becoming one of Philadelphia’s most recognized morning news anchors.

From Radio to TV: Bob Kelly’s Rise to Fame

Bob Kelly’s career took a major leap when he joined KYW News Radio as a traffic reporter.

His innovative use of green screen traffic reports at CBS 3 Philadelphia made his segments stand out and easier to follow for viewers.

Bob’s quirky and catchy traffic terms like Jammo catchphrase, Jelly donut delay and the infamous Conshy Curve became local favorites, earning him the nickname “The Dean of Traffic.”

In 2014, Bob moved to FOX 29 Philadelphia, where he expanded his role beyond traffic reports by hosting community-driven shows such as Kelly Drives, which showcases hidden gems in Philadelphia.

His genuine love for the city and engaging storytelling have earned him a loyal fan base, particularly among Philadelphia sports fans and those who appreciate authentic local community reporting.

Life Off-Camera: Bob Kelly’s Family & Wife

While Bob Kelly shines on screen, his heart is at home with his family. Married to Carrie Kelly, a child life specialist, Bob is a proud father of six children and a grandfather of two.

The family lives comfortably in a Philadelphia suburb near Malvern, Pennsylvania.

Despite his busy schedule, Bob often shares funny and touching stories about family life, highlighting how he balances his career with fatherhood.

Bob was previously married to Colleen, with whom he shares two daughters.

Their amicable divorce in 2008 focused on co-parenting with care and respect, reflecting Bob’s down-to-earth nature and commitment to family values.

Age, Birthday & Where He’s From

Though Bob Kelly’s exact birthdate remains private, he is thought to be in his late 50s or early 60s.

Raised in Northeast Philadelphia, his familiarity with the city’s landmarks and neighborhoods gives him a unique edge as a Philadelphia traffic reporter.

His authentic connection to the city is part of why viewers trust and enjoy his reporting.

Bob Kelly’s Height, Looks & On-Screen Presence

Bob may be around 5 feet 7 inches tall, but his presence on screen is anything but small.

His bright smile and lively gestures make traffic updates more enjoyable, turning routine news into engaging entertainment.

Bob’s warm and approachable style fits perfectly with his role as a morning news anchor and community figure, especially during festive events like the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade or his annual holiday special, A Very Kelly Christmas.

Net Worth & Salary: How Much Does Bob Kelly Make?

As of 2025, Bob Kelly’s estimated net worth ranges from $1 million to $5 million. His yearly salary at FOX 29 is estimated between $45,000 and $110,000.

His income is supplemented by hosting popular shows like Kelly Drives and participating in community events such as the Tailgate Takeover segment at Eagles games.

His financial success reflects his reputation as one of Philadelphia’s top Emmy award winners in journalism and a trusted media personality.

What Makes Bob Kelly a Fan Favorite in Philly?

Bob’s popularity is built on more than just traffic updates. His use of relatable and funny phrases like Jammo catchphrase and Jelly donut delay make his reports memorable.

His commitment to the city, evident in shows like Kelly Drives and appearances at sporting events, makes him feel like part of Philadelphia’s community.

His genuine warmth and interaction with viewers go beyond the screen, creating a strong bond that has lasted for years.

For many, Bob Kelly is not just a reporter but a friend who knows Philadelphia inside and out.

Read More : Alex Hormozi Net Worth : From Gym Floors to $100M+ Success

Lesser-Known Facts About Bob Kelly

Before becoming a TV star, Bob started as a radio disc jockey in Philadelphia, which influenced his natural and engaging on-air style.

He was the first in the city to present green screen traffic reports, a technology now standard in traffic broadcasting.

Bob also has a long history of community involvement, having co-hosted the Philadelphia St. Patrick’s Day Parade for over 15 years and creating the festive A Very Kelly Christmas broadcast that celebrates the holiday spirit in Philly.

FAQs About Bob Kelly

Is Bob Kelly still working at FOX 29 in 2025?
Yes, he continues to be a key FOX 29 traffic reporter and community figure.

How many kids does Bob Kelly have?
Bob has six children and two grandchildren.

Who is Bob Kelly married to?
He is married to Carrie Kelly, a child life specialist.

What is the “Kelly Drives” show?
A weekly program where Bob explores Philadelphia’s neighborhoods and shares interesting stories beyond traffic.

Where does Bob Kelly live now?
He lives in Malvern, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia.

What are some of Bob Kelly’s famous traffic phrases?
Some of his most loved terms include Jammo catchphrase, Jelly donut delay and references to the Conshy Curve.

Final Thoughts

Bob Kelly’s life in 2025: What you didn’t see on TV reveals the story of a man deeply connected to his city and family.

From his start as a radio disc jockey to becoming one of the most recognized faces in Philadelphia’s news, Bob has built a career based on authenticity, humor and genuine love for his community.

Whether you watch him on Good Day Philadelphia or catch his Kelly Drives show, Bob Kelly is more than a traffic reporter he’s a true Philadelphia local celebrity and a cherished part of the city’s daily life.

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