‘Thanks for the Love': Radio Station Wild 94.9 Pays Tribute to Missing Host ‘JV'

Bay Area radio station Wild 94.9 on Wednesday posted a tribute to missing host Jeffrey Vandergrift, widely known as "JV."

"Behind the pranking and lighthearted fun on the radio, JV has always been a champion for those whose lives were challenged," the station wrote in a statement posted on its website.

"JV has also been incredibly candid about the highs and lows of his own life," the statement continued. "He shared his life journey with his audience in hopes that someone else could gain some knowledge or empathy or feel supported. His transparency has inspired many to call into the show, write letters of support and share his stories on social media."

The station closed by writing, "Thanks for the laughs. Thanks for the love. Thank you, JV!"

The station's entire statement can be found at the bottom of this article.

Vandergrift has been missing since Feb. 23, according to the radio station and police. He was last seen at his home on the 200 block of King Street in San Francisco.

In a statement released nearly a week after his disappearance, Vandergrift's wife, Natasha Yi, said in part "personal information has recently been discovered that leads us to believe JV will not be coming back."

San Francisco police have said they do not have information that would suggest foul play is a factor in Vandergrift's disappearance.

Vandergrift is 6 feet tall, 180 pounds and bald, according to police. He has brown eyes and several tattoos, including ones on his arms and above his right ear. He was last seen wearing black sweatpants.

Anyone who spots Vandergrift should call 911. People with information about his possible whereabouts are encouraged to call the police department's tip line at 415-575-4444 or text a tip to TIP411 and start the text message with SFPD.

If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988, or reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting ‘Home’ to 741741, anytime.

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Wild 94.9's tribute to host 'JV'

Bay Area born and bred; JV (Jeff Vandergrift) grew up a radio fanatic, listening to his favorite DJ, John London, and dreaming of his own show one day. Not only did that dream come true, but JV went on to entertain, amuse and engage the Bay Area for over 30 years.

Shortly after starting the legendary morning show, The Dog House at Hot 97.7 in San Jose, he brought The Dog House to Wild 107.7 San Francisco in 1994 along with Elvis and Hollywood. JV quickly became a household name after joining Wild 107.7 (which later moved to Wild 94.9) as the show became the #1 morning show in the Bay Area. Generations of listeners were treated to a daily mix of pranks and laughs and a colorful cast of characters.

When The Dog House disbanded, JV returned to Wild 94.9 in 2009 to host The JV Show where he continued his reign as radio royalty. He was joined by his wife Natasha, co-host Selena and producer Graham to round out The JV Show we know and love today.

Behind the pranking and lighthearted fun on the radio, JV has always been a champion for those whose lives were challenged. His support for Candy Cane Lane and the George Mark Children’s House ensured that dozens of kids and families have received holiday gifts and cheer. From a terminally ill child whose dream was going to Disneyland to a family in need of a holiday meal, JV always delivered humanity along with humor.

JV has also been incredibly candid about the highs and lows of his own life. He shared his life journey with his audience in hopes that someone else could gain some knowledge or empathy or feel supported. His transparency has inspired many to call into the show, write letters of support and share his stories on social media.

Thanks for the laughs. Thanks for the love. Thank you, JV!