The sports world mourned the loss of a true legend on Friday as iconic broadcaster Greg Gumbel passed away at the age of 78 after a courageous battle with cancer.
A voice synonymous with NFL games and CBS’ coverage of March Madness, Gumbel also made history by hosting and calling two Super Bowls from the booth and three as a studio host.
Fans and media professionals alike took to social media to honor his legacy. ESPN’s Jeremy Schaap described Gumbel as a “giant in the business,” reflecting the deep respect he commanded throughout his illustrious career.
Gumbel’s connection to ESPN dates back to its formative years, where he served as a “SportsCenter” anchor alongside Schaap’s father, Dick Schaap. Gumbel’s contributions to sports broadcasting will be remembered as pioneering and transformative, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.
“Unflappable,” wrote Jeremy Schaap on X, reflecting on his time working with Greg Gumbel at two Olympics—Lillehammer and Atlanta. “I wrote for him at Lillehammer, where he hosted the highest-rated unscripted show in TV history—second only to the finale of MASH—and he was always calm, self-assured, and professional. A truly gifted and lovely fella.”
Stan Verrett, a current “SportsCenter” host, also shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing deep admiration for Gumbel’s illustrious career.
“Greg Gumbel had the kind of career we all dream of in this industry,” Verrett wrote. “He was talented, versatile, professional, respected, and tenured. I’m saddened by his passing and regret never meeting him to thank him for the inspiration. RIP.”
Both tributes underscore Gumbel’s impact on sports broadcasting, not just as a consummate professional but as a role model for aspiring journalists. His unmatched ability to balance grace under pressure and his influence on generations of broadcasters cements his legacy as one of the greatest in the field.
Chris Berman and Greg Gumbel at ESPN in 1985.
At Super Bowl XXX, Dallas Cowboys head coach Barry Switzer held the Vince Lombardi Trophy high in victory, joined by NBC Sports announcer Greg Gumbel and Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, following their triumph over the Pittsburgh Steelers at Sun Devil Stadium. It was one of many iconic moments in Gumbel’s illustrious career.
Gumbel’s contributions to sports broadcasting earned him immense respect and accolades throughout his career. CBS college football reporter Jenny Dell highlighted his legacy, noting that Gumbel, a 2007 Pat Summerall Award recipient, was “One of the best to ever do it.”
University of Wisconsin Green Bay basketball coach and radio host Doug Gottlieb also reflected fondly on his time working with Gumbel at CBS Sports.
“Greg [Gumbel] was so very kind to me during my time with CBS Sports and the years since. He LOVED his family, sports, and live music. RIP. Cancer sucks,” Gottlieb wrote.
Gumbel’s career spanned decades, covering everything from the Olympics to Super Bowls and NCAA basketball tournaments. He was known not only for his professionalism and versatility but also for his warmth and kindness toward colleagues and younger broadcasters.
As a trailblazer and role model in the industry, Gumbel’s influence extended far beyond the screen. His love for family, passion for sports, and dedication to his craft left an indelible mark on those who worked alongside him and millions who watched him. The loss of such an icon is deeply felt across the sports and media world, where his memory will continue to inspire.
