Renowned sportscaster Greg Gumbel, a fixture in the world of sports broadcasting and a beloved voice for decades, has passed away at the age of 78 following a brave battle with cancer, his family confirmed on Friday.
In a heartfelt statement, his wife Marcy and daughter Michelle shared their sorrow:
"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel. He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg approached his illness with stoicism, grace, and positivity-qualities that defined his extraordinary life."
Gumbel's career spanned over 50 years, earning him a revered place in sports broadcasting. Best known for his work with CBS, he became a household name as the host of the NCAA Tournament and as a play-by-play announcer for NFL games. His distinctive voice and professional demeanor left an indelible mark on fans and colleagues alike.
CBS mourned Gumbel's passing
Greg Gumbel's journey at CBS began decades ago, with two impactful stints. After joining the network in 1998, he quickly became the lead play-by-play announcer alongside Phil Simms. Later, he hosted The NFL Today for two seasons before returning to call NFL games in 2006, a role he held until his retirement after the 2022 season.
David Berson, president and CEO of CBS Sports, expressed his grief in a statement:
"The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel. There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television. He was beloved and respected by those of us who had the honor to call him a friend and colleague."
An icon of sports journalism
Though Gumbel missed the 2023 NCAA Tournament due to "family health issues," his courage and determination remained evident until the end.
Greg Gumbel leaves behind a legacy of excellence, inspiration, and love. His iconic voice will echo in the memories of sports fans everywhere, and his impact on the industry will not be forgotten.