Legendary sportscaster Greg Gumbel has passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and dedication to the sports broadcast industry. His family released a statement on Friday, confirming his death from cancer.
Gumbel’s wife, Marcy Gumbel, and daughter, Michelle Gumbel, expressed their love and admiration for him in the statement, saying, “He leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and dedication to over 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcast industry; and his iconic voice will never be forgotten.”
In March, Gumbel was unable to host the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1997 due to family health issues. He had been the studio host for CBS since 1998, after returning from NBC. Last year, Gumbel signed an extension with CBS that allowed him to continue hosting college basketball while stepping back from NFL announcing duties.
Gumbel made history in 2001 when he became the first Black announcer in the U.S. to call play-by-play for a major sports championship, announcing Super Bowl XXXV for CBS. His impact on the sports broadcasting world was immeasurable, and his contributions will never be forgotten.
David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, praised Gumbel for breaking barriers and setting standards for others during his years as a voice for fans in sports, including in the NFL and March Madness. “A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time,” said Berson.
Gumbel had two stints at CBS, leaving the network for NBC in 1994 when it lost football and returning in 1998 when it regained the contract. He also hosted CBS’s coverage of the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics and called Major League Baseball games during its four-year run broadcasting the national pastime.
But it was football and basketball where Gumbel was best known and made his biggest impact. He hosted CBS’s NFL studio show, “The NFL Today” from 1990 to 1993 and again in 2004. He also called NFL games as the network’s lead play-by-play announcer from 1998 to 2003. He returned to the NFL booth in 2005 and continued in that role until the end of the 2022 season.
Gumbel’s passion for sports and his ability to captivate audiences with his storytelling and commentary made him a beloved figure in the sports world. He will be deeply missed by his colleagues, fans, and the entire sports community.
As we mourn the loss of Greg Gumbel, let us also celebrate his incredible life and career. He will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a pioneer, and a true legend in the world of sports broadcasting. Rest in peace, Greg Gumbel. Your voice will continue to inspire and entertain us for generations to come.
