Longtime CBS Sports anchor Greg Gumbel has passed away at the age of 78.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel,” Gumbel’s wife Marcy and daughter Michelle revealed to CBS Sports. “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.”
Gumbel’s family continued: “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.”
The iconic broadcaster kicked off his journey with CBS Sports back in ’89, juggling roles as both an NFL play-by-play announcer and an in-studio host for college basketball, including the NCAA Tournament. Earlier this year, CBS announced that Gumbel wouldn’t be part of the 2024 men’s NCAA Tournament coverage because of some family health concerns.
Gumbel made history as the first Black play-by-play announcer to call a major U.S. championship sporting event when he covered the Baltimore Ravens’ victory over the New York Giants in Super Bowl 35.