Chicago, U.S. – Greg Gumbel, a legendary sports broadcaster and the first Black announcer to call play-by-play for a major U.S. sports championship, has died from cancer at the age of 78. His family announced his passing on Friday in a statement shared by CBS.
“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,” his wife, Marcy Gumbel, and daughter, Michelle Gumbel, said.
A Groundbreaking Career
Gumbel began his career in sportscasting in 1973 and went on to host and call some of the most prominent events in sports history. He was best known for his work in football and basketball, hosting The NFL Today and serving as CBS’ lead play-by-play announcer for NFL games from 1998 to 2003, including Super Bowls 35 and 38.
His historic role in Super Bowl 35 in 2001 made him the first Black announcer to call play-by-play for a major sports championship. Gumbel also hosted CBS’ coverage of March Madness and the Winter Olympics in 1992 and 1994.
Beyond football and basketball, Gumbel contributed to Major League Baseball broadcasts and hosted NBC’s daytime coverage of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.
David Berson, President and CEO of CBS Sports, described Gumbel as a trailblazer: “A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time.”
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born in Chicago, Gumbel graduated from Loras College in Iowa in 1967 with a degree in English. Initially planning to become a teacher, he transitioned into broadcasting after his brother, Bryant Gumbel, suggested he audition for a sportscasting role.
Gumbel’s career took off when he joined WMAQ-TV, an NBC affiliate in Chicago, as a weekend sports anchor. He later worked for ESPN and the Madison Square Garden network before joining CBS.
Legacy and Tributes
Throughout his career, Gumbel won local Emmy Awards and received the 2007 Pat Summerall Award for excellence in sports broadcasting.
Off-screen, Gumbel dedicated much of his time to charitable causes, serving on the board of trustees for the March of Dimes for over 30 years and as a member of the Sports Council for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital for 16 years.
His younger brother, Bryant Gumbel, a celebrated journalist and sportscaster, paid tribute to his legacy: “Greg was not only a trailblazer but also an inspiration for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
James Brown, the current host of The NFL Today, remembered him as “Mr. Versatility” and praised his dedication to every assignment.
Greg Gumbel is survived by his wife, Marcy, his daughter, Michelle, and a legacy of excellence that shaped the sports broadcasting industry.
