By David Robert | Published: June 30, 2026 | Last Updated: June 30, 2026 | Fact-Checked by Editorial Team
DETROIT, Michigan — Kenny Kott, the longtime producer and on-air contributor for 97.1 The Ticket’s The Valenti Show with Rico, has died at the age of 32 following medical complications, according to an official announcement from the Detroit sports radio station.
Kott, who joined the station in December 2017, was widely recognized throughout Detroit’s sports media community for his behind-the-scenes production work, encyclopedic hockey knowledge, quick humor, and unwavering passion for Detroit sports. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, listeners, and fellow broadcasters who remembered him as one of the station’s most beloved personalities.
What Happened to Kenny Kott?
According to public statements released by colleagues and reports from Detroit media, Kott experienced a medical event in early June and remained hospitalized for several weeks before his condition worsened.
97.1 The Ticket confirmed that he died from medical complications.
At the time of publication, neither Kott’s family nor the station has publicly disclosed additional details regarding the specific nature of those complications. This article will be updated if verified information becomes available.
Who Was Kenny Kott?
For nearly eight years, Kenny Kott served as producer for The Valenti Show with Rico, one of Detroit’s highest-rated sports talk programs.
Although producers often work behind the scenes, Kott became a familiar voice to listeners through his regular on-air appearances and unmistakable personality. His colleagues frequently praised his exceptional knowledge of the NHL, particularly his insight into the Detroit Red Wings and the broader hockey world.
His infectious laugh, sharp sense of humor, and ability to seamlessly contribute to conversations made him a fan favorite among the show’s audience.
Before beginning his broadcasting career, Kott attended Eisenhower High School from 2008 to 2012. Friends and coworkers often said sports radio wasn’t simply his profession—it was the career he had always dreamed of pursuing.
Outside of work, Kott married Jen Olson on August 9, 2025, a milestone remembered fondly by friends following news of his passing.
Mike Valenti Pays Emotional Tribute
Longtime host Mike Valenti shared an emotional remembrance during the show’s tribute to Kott, reflecting on both his professional contributions and personal character.
“I just want you to know what we truly thought of Kenny. Beyond the jokes and the ball-breaking and the rest. I would always bust his chops, like, ‘Man, what do you want out of life? What is it you want, so I can help deliver this?’ And he would always say, ‘No, I just always wanted to be part of a radio show.’ And I’d say, ‘OK, well, you did that, and you’re part of the best one. So what’s next?'”
Valenti’s remarks illustrated how deeply respected Kott had become within the station—not only as a producer but as a trusted teammate whose passion elevated everyone around him.
Colleagues Remember a Trusted Friend
Co-producer David “Hatchetman” Hull also reflected on Kott’s legacy, emphasizing both his expertise and his friendship.
“I’m going to miss him. I’m going to miss the ‘Hockey Elite’ information that man had. It’s a huge loss for us, because as Mike said, we are a team. We get on each other, we get at each other, but we all love each other. That’s the important part. We loved Kenny, and we’re definitely going to miss him.”
For many listeners, Kott’s encyclopedic hockey knowledge became one of the defining elements of The Valenti Show with Rico, particularly during NHL season.
97.1 The Ticket Issues Official Statement
In announcing his passing, 97.1 The Ticket wrote:
“It is with a heavy heart that 97.1 The Ticket shares the news that Kenny Kott, a valued and beloved member of The Valenti Show with Rico, has passed away due to medical complications.”
The station’s announcement was met with hundreds of messages of support from listeners and members of Detroit’s sports community, many of whom credited Kott with bringing warmth, humor, and authenticity to the program.
Kenny Kott’s Legacy in Detroit Sports Media
Although he rarely sought the spotlight, Kott’s influence extended far beyond the production booth.
His preparation, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm helped shape one of Detroit’s most influential sports radio shows. Whether discussing hockey prospects, reacting to breaking sports news, or sharing a laugh with colleagues, he earned the admiration of coworkers and listeners alike.
Those closest to him remember someone who achieved what he often described as his lifelong goal: becoming part of a successful sports radio show surrounded by people he considered family.
His contributions to Detroit sports broadcasting—and the relationships he built throughout his career—will continue to be remembered by colleagues, friends, and fans.
Funeral and Memorial Information
As of June 30, 2026, Kenny Kott’s family has not publicly announced funeral or memorial service arrangements.
When verified information becomes available, this article will be updated.
Memorial Details
- Location: To be announced
- Date: To be announced
- Time: To be announced
- Public Attendance: Pending announcement from the family
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Kenny Kott die?
97.1 The Ticket confirmed that Kenny Kott died following medical complications after spending several weeks hospitalized. No additional medical information has been publicly released.
How old was Kenny Kott?
Kenny Kott was 32 years old.
Where did Kenny Kott work?
Kott worked as producer and on-air contributor for The Valenti Show with Rico on 97.1 The Ticket beginning in December 2017.
Was Kenny Kott married?
Yes. Kenny Kott married Jen Olson on August 9, 2025.
Editorial Standards
This obituary was prepared using official statements released by 97.1 The Ticket, publicly available comments from colleagues, and verified biographical information available at the time of publication. Information that has not been independently confirmed has been intentionally omitted. This article will be updated as additional verified details become available.