Renowned sports broadcaster Greg Gumbel has passed away at the age of 78, his family announced on Friday. Gumbel’s wife, Marcy, and daughter, Michelle, released a statement through CBS Sports, stating that he died after a courageous battle with cancer.
Gumbel spent over five decades in broadcasting, covering nearly every major sport, including the Olympics, and working in various roles at ESPN, CBS, and NBC. He was known for his iconic voice, which became synonymous with March Madness and NFL coverage. Gumbel hosted “College Basketball on CBS” from 1998 to 2023 and called several Super Bowls, including the first as a Black play-by-play announcer.
Gumbel’s legacy extends beyond his broadcasting career, as he was a devoted supporter of charitable causes, particularly the March of Dimes and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. He dedicated 30 years to the March of Dimes and served on the National Board of Advisors for 18 years.
The sports industry is mourning Gumbel’s loss, with tributes pouring in from fellow broadcasters, including CBS Sports president David Berson and NFL play-by-play announcer Phil Simms. “Greg was a highly accomplished and pioneering figure in sports broadcasting,” said Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN chairman.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6022424/2024/12/27/greg-gumbel-cbs-cancer-death