78-Year-Old CBS Sports Studio Host and Play-by-Play Commentator Passes Away

Greg Gumbel, the iconic CBS sportscaster known for his work hosting the NCAA men’s basketball tournament and The NFL Today, as well as calling play-by-play for two Super Bowls, has passed away at the age of 78. His death, following a battle with cancer, was confirmed by his wife, Marcy, and daughter, Michelle.

Survived by his younger brother, Bryant Gumbel, Greg Gumbel had an illustrious career spanning over 50 years in the sports broadcast industry. He was revered for his stoicism, grace, and positivity in the face of illness, leaving behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and dedication.

Gumbel was a fixture on CBS’ coverage of March Madness for 26 years and hosted The NFL Today in the 1990s before returning to the program in the early 2000s. He also made history as the first African American to call play-by-play for a major U.S. sports championship at the 2001 Super Bowl.

Born in New Orleans and raised in Chicago, Gumbel’s broadcasting journey began in the 1970s when he joined WMAQ-TV in Chicago as a weekend sports anchor. He later worked for ESPN before landing at CBS in 1988, where he became a staple in NFL and college football coverage.

Gumbel’s impact on the sports world was unparalleled, with his distinctive voice and understated style becoming a trademark of his broadcasting career. Despite his achievements, he remained humble, believing that broadcasters could only deter viewers, not attract them.

In addition to his work in sports broadcasting, Gumbel made appearances on various TV shows and was a passionate fan of the Rolling Stones and baseball. He leaves behind his wife, daughter, and siblings, Renee and Rhonda.

CBS Sports president and CEO David Berson praised Gumbel for his remarkable career, describing him as a gentleman and gifted storyteller who set the standard for sports broadcasters. Gumbel’s contributions to the industry will be remembered and cherished by fans and colleagues alike.



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