CBS Sports released a statement mourning the loss of legendary broadcaster Greg Gumbel.
On Friday, it was announced that Gumbel had died at age 78 after Emmy-winning producer Dan Forer shared the news on a Facebook post. “The holidays are supposed to be filled with joy, but they are often mixed with sorrow. I just learned that my dear friend Greg Gumbel has passed,” the post began.
“Greg was the best announcer a young producer/director could have because he was extremely inclusive and never ever lost his cool except for the time we were shooting a Super Bowl Anti-Drug PSA in the South Bronx at 2 am and live gunfire erupted. That was the only occasion Greg raised his voice and had a few choice words for me; which I deserved.
“In addition to being a true professional he was a kind, magnificent man. May his memory be a treasured blessing for his family and friends.” Along with Forer, the network also released a statement after Gumbel’s death and shared just how impactful the legendary broadcaster was during his time with CBS Sports.
“The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel,” CBS Sports president David Berson’s statement read. “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.
“A tremendous broadcaster and gifted storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and groundbreaking sports broadcasting careers of all time. He was a familiar and welcoming voice for fans across many sports, including the NFL and March Madness, highlighted by the Super Bowl and Final Four.
“Greg broke barriers and set the standard for others to follow. It is an extremely sad day for all of us at CBS Sports and the entire sports community. We will miss Greg dearly, and send our deepest condolences to his wife Marcy, daughter Michelle, and his entire family.”
And while Gumbel had been a presence in sports, he missed the 2024 NCAA men’s basketball tournament due to “health reasons,” according to The Athletic. Still, the 78-year made his mark throughout the decades, with his tenure with CBS Sports beginning on a part-time basis in 1988.
While working in NFL games, Gumbel also was then tabbed with doing college basketball games as well, in a dual role. In 1990, he was named a host of ‘The NFL Today,’ working next to Terry Bradshaw. Gumbel also covered MLB, NASCAR, NBA, and the Winter Olympics. He also briefly worked for NBC to cover Super Bowl XXXII before returning to CBS Sports for the rest of his career.
Legendary sportscaster Ernie Johnson also shared his condolences to Gumbel’s family. On social media, the TNT Sports star wrote: “The news that Greg Gumbel has passed is just heartbreaking. Was an honor to share the March Madness desk with him. A pro’s pro and a gentleman of the highest order.”
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