Remembering Liz Wilde
• On Wednesday, October 9, the radio industry lost one of its most captivating voices, Liz Wilde, who passed away of natural causes. Her groundbreaking contributions, unmatched wit, and bold presence left an indelible mark on rock radio and the countless fans who followed her career.
Wilde, born Anne Whittemore near Dayton, OH, launched her radio career in 1985 at WIIS and WAIL/Kay West, FL, where she was known as “Ann with The Plan.” Her big break came at the legendary WSHE/Miami, where, after a name change, The Liz Wilde Show was born, forever changing the radio landscape. Throughout the ’90s, she was a commanding force as such iconic stations as WAAF/Boston and WLUP (The Loop)/Chicago.
Often referred to as “the female Howard Stern,” Liz Wilde was unapologetically original and fiercely influential long before “influencer” became a buzzword. She moved in legendary circles, on a first-name basis with the likes of Gene Simmons, Lenny Kravitz, Paris Hilton, and many more, yet never lost her down-to-earth charm.
Wilde’s show later aired in morning drive on WPLL/Fort Lauderdale, followed by stints at WMMS/Cleveland, KYNG (KLLI)/Dallas/Fort Worth, and most recently, WRXK/Ft. Myers, FL from November 2004 until March 2006
In 2014, Liz pursued her passion for the arts by opening The Firestone Gallery/The Wilde Mermaid in Bradenton, FL, with her late husband, Lee Firestone. The gallery featured their own artwork alongside a stunning collection of vintage art pieces, capturing Liz’s boundless creativity and love for life.
Reflecting on their decades-long friendship, longtime friend and fellow radio personality, Lu Valentino said, “From the moment I met Liz, I knew she was a force of nature — brilliant, fierce, and endlessly entertaining. We spent years after our shows, writing bits and dreaming of major market radio while lounging in the Key West sun with her late mother. Her intellect and humor were unparalleled, and she made an indelible impact on everyone who had the privilege to know her.”
Liz Wilde is survived by her extended radio family and legions of devoted fans. She now joins her late parents, twin brothers, and her late husband Lee, in a place where her spirit will forever shine.
Valentino added, “As Liz would say, if you miss her, just find a dog, give it a belly rub, and smile — because that’s exactly what she’d want you to do.” You may share your condolences on Liz’s legacy Facebook page.
