Greg Gumbel, one of the most respected and recognisable voices in sports broadcasting, has passed away at the age of 78 after a courageous battle with cancer. The iconic sports anchor, whose career spanned over 50 years, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, CBS Sports confirmed on Friday.
In a statement shared by CBS Sports, Gumbel’s wife, Marcy, and daughter, Michelle, expressed their grief and admiration for his strength during his illness: “He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg approached his illness like one would expect him to, with stoicism, grace, and positivity. He leaves 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.”
Gumbel’s distinguished career made an indelible mark on sports broadcasting. His voice became synonymous with major sports events, and he was a key figure in CBS Sports’ coverage of college basketball, the NFL, and the Winter Olympics. He first joined CBS Sports in the mid-1970s and quickly became one of the most respected figures in the industry. Known for his professionalism and calm demeanour, Gumbel became a trusted figure for millions of sports fans nationwide.
Throughout his career, Gumbel was a groundbreaking figure, particularly as one of the first African-American broadcasters to achieve significant success in the sports world. In 2001, he made history as the first Black announcer in the United States to call play-by-play for a major sports championship when he called Super Bowl XXXV for CBS. This milestone, among others, solidified his reputation as a trailblazer for future generations of broadcasters, and he continued to inspire and break barriers throughout his career.
David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, paid tribute to Gumbel’s incredible career: “A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time. He broke barriers and set standards for others in the industry.”
Gumbel’s voice was most familiar to viewers during the NCAA basketball tournament, where he served as the studio host for CBS. He joined the network in 1998 after a stint at NBC, where he had left in 1994 when NBC lost its NFL broadcasting rights. Gumbel was undeniably able to connect with viewers, bringing excitement and insightful commentary to the biggest games. His extensive coverage of NCAA basketball became a hallmark of his career, and his absence from the tournament in 2024 due to health reasons marked a poignant moment in the sports world.
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A significant moment in Gumbel’s career came in 2001 when he was assigned to call Super Bowl XXXV. This historic achievement made Gumbel a pioneering figure and set the stage for other broadcasters to follow in his footsteps. His role as the lead announcer for the Super Bowl and his work as a play-by-play announcer for NFL games from 1998 to 2003 made him one of the most beloved figures in sports broadcasting.
In addition to his Super Bowl duties, Gumbel’s career included extensive work covering the Winter Olympics, Major League Baseball, and World Figure Skating Championships. He also played a key role in hosting CBS’s NFL studio show, “The NFL Today,” from 1990 to 1993 and later in 2004, helping elevate the network’s coverage of the NFL.
Outside of his broadcasting work, Gumbel was known for his philanthropic efforts. He was a longtime supporter of the March of Dimes and served on its board of trustees for over thirty years. He was also involved with the Sports Council for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital for sixteen years, using his platform to raise awareness and support for important causes.
Gumbel’s contributions to the field were recognised through numerous accolades, including the local Emmy Awards and the prestigious 2007 Pat Summerall Award for excellence in sports broadcasting. However, his dedication to the craft and his impact on viewers, colleagues, and aspiring broadcasters will define his lasting legacy.
Clark Kellogg, CBS Sports college basketball game and studio analyst, spoke fondly of Gumbel, saying, “Like all who knew and loved him, I too am saddened by his death, yet also so grateful to have known him. What a gift to be touched by such a good man and partner.”
Born in Chicago, Gumbel graduated from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1967 with a degree in English. He began his broadcasting career at ESPN in 1981, anchoring “SportsCenter” and contributing to ESPN’s early NBA coverage. Gumbel’s contributions to both CBS and ESPN cemented his place as one of the most significant figures in the history of sports media.
Greg Gumbel is survived by his wife Marcy, daughter Michelle, and countless colleagues who admired him both as a broadcaster and a person. His legacy will live on through his contributions to sports broadcasting, pioneering work, and influence on generations of broadcasters.