Veteran Charleston Morning Host TJ Phillips Dies at 66

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 9, 2025 | 11:08am CT

TJ Phillips

TJ Phillips, a veteran broadcaster and beloved voice in the Charleston, SC, radio community for more than three decades, has died. He was 66. Charleston Media Solutions, owner of WCKN (92.5 Kickin' Country), announced Phillips' passing on Sunday, June 8, describing his death as peaceful. The news was shared with listeners Monday morning.

Phillips most recently co-hosted TJ & Jessica in the Morning alongside Jessica Chandler, airing weekdays from 5-10am, with additional weekend slots. His radio career spanned decades, beginning at age 15 and encompassing formats from country and Classic Rock to Sports and Talk radio.

"TJ Phillips was more than a morning DJ," said Paul O'Malley, President of Charleston Media Solutions. "He was an immensely talented broadcaster, but also a veteran who proudly served his country, a man who constantly tried to make the lives of others better, and a friend who will be greatly missed."

Before joining Kickin' Country in 2016, Phillips spent over 25 years at WEZL and was also a contributor to Live 5 News, reporting live from the CMA Awards.

Throughout his career, Phillips was widely recognized for his contributions to broadcasting and the community. He was a multiple-time winner of Best Radio Personality by The Charleston City Paper and Mount Pleasant Magazine, earned South Carolina Broadcasters Radio Show of the Year honors, and received 16 Addy Awards for excellence in commercial production and copywriting. He was also inducted into the Lowcountry Music Hall of Fame for his enduring support of local music.

WKCN remembered him as "a legend" who gave generously to the community, lending his support to causes such as the Charleston Animal Society and the MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital. Phillips leaves behind a legacy of dedication to his craft and compassion for the Charleston community he served for over 30 years.