ATLANTA — Legendary sports broadcaster Greg Gumbel has passed away at 78, his family confirmed in a statement.
His family made a statement on Friday, saying:
“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 like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace, and positivity. 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. Greg’s memory will forever be treasured by his family, dearest friends, colleagues and all who loved him.” - Marcy & Michelle Gumbel
David Berson, the president & CEO of CBS Sports also released a statement on Gumbel’s death saying:
“The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel. There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television.” Berson said. “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.”
Gumbel began hosting CBS’ coverage of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament in 1998.
He was the first Black play-by-play announcer to broadcast a major championship event, according to the magazine. He was behind the microphone for the Baltimore Ravens’ 34-7 win against the New York Giants in Super Bowl 35.
Gumble hosted “The NFL Today” on CBS from 1990 to 1993 and also “The NFL on NBC.”
Gumbel is the older brother of Bryant Gumbel, another legendary sports broadcaster. Other colleagues and friends have released statements on Gumbel’s’ passing.
“Greg was a role model and a pioneer,” Harold Bryant said. “He broke barriers being one of the few Black broadcasters covering sports at the highest levels. He set a high bar for others to follow. His work was beyond reproach as he became one of the most respected broadcasters in the industry. Whether it was play-by-play, studio host, or interviewing elite athletes, Greg was as smooth and trustworthy as could be. Greg loved his family, loved The Rolling Stones, and loved CBS. He treated everybody with respect and gratitude. Greg – you will be missed.”
“For close to 25 years, I enjoyed and was richly blessed by Greg’s friendship, goodness, humor, partnership, professionalism and wisdom,” Clark Kellogg said. “He was excellent in his work and exemplary in his caring and character. Like all who knew and loved him, I too am saddened by his death, yet also so very grateful to have known him in my life. What a gift to be touched by such a good man and partner. My deepest condolences to the entire Gumbel family.”
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