Greg Gumbel: Legendary Cubs sports anchor dies at 78

Greg Gumbel, popular CBS Sports anchor and commentator, has died at the age of 78. His family confirmed the sad news in a statement on Friday. The statement said:”It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel. He passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg faced his illness as he would have expected – with patience, calmness and positivity.”

The statement went on to say “He leaves behind an immortal legacy of love, inspiration and dedication that recalls more than 50 years of an incredible career in the sports broadcast industry. His iconic voice will never be forgotten. The memories of Greg will live on in the hearts of his family, closest friends, colleagues and everyone who loved him.”- Marcy & Michelle Gumbel

Greg Gumbel An Unparalleled Legacy Greg Gumbel was born May 3, 1946 in New Orleans and raised in Chicago. He graduated from Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa in 1967. Greg’s younger brother Bryant Gumbel is also well-known in the broadcasting world, hosting NBC’s “Today Show” and HBO’s “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel.”Greg began his career hosting New York Knicks basketball and Yankees baseball for the Madison Square Garden Network, where he was honored with a local Emmy Award.He began his journey with CBS Sports in 1989. Here he hosted big events like “The NFL Today”, Super Bowl and Olympic Games.

Greg’s Contributions to CBS Sports and NBC Greg Gumbel became a well-known name for CBS Sports. He hosted “The NFL Today” (1990-93 and 2004-05), Super Bowl XXVI (1992), Super Bowl XLVII (2013), and Super Bowl 50 (2016). His contributions to play-by-play commentary for college football and Major League Baseball are also memorable.His tenure with NBC Sports was also quite successful. He hosted “The NFL on NBC”, Super Bowl XXX pre-game shows, and coverage of the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games.

Tributes from Industry Friends and Colleagues CBS Sports President and CEO David Berson said on his death:”The passing of Greg Gumbel breaks the CBS Sports family. He was one of the most honorable people on television. A brilliant broadcaster and storyteller, Greg set the standard for sports broadcasting and held a special place in the heart of every fan.”His longtime colleague Lesley Visser said:”Greg had a unique dignity that he brought to his work. He worked with a light touch and wit, and everyone loved working with him.”

An African-American Pioneer Greg Gumbel is considered an African-American pioneer who set new standards in sports broadcasting. Magic Johnson paid tribute to him saying:”Greg was a legendary broadcaster and my friend. He broke many barriers and set new records.”

Charity and Community Work Greg was not only an amazing broadcaster but also a committed philanthropist. He was greatly dedicated to the March of Dimes and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

The Immortal Legacy of His Work In 2022, Greg Gumbel completed 50 years of his broadcasting career. It was a journey that set an example in sports journalism. Whether it was the NFL, March Madness, or the Olympics – Greg’s voice will always be remembered.With his demise, an entire generation has lost an iconic voice and a dedicated person. Greg’s memory will always be immortal in the world of sports broadcasting.

Greg Gumbel’s unique work and awards Greg Gumbel’s broadcasting journey was not limited to his voice, but his professionalism and dedication to his work also made him different. He won many big awards and honors during his career, including the 2007 Pat Summerall Award. This award was given for his excellence in sports broadcasting.Greg’s work was so extensive that he covered every major sports event, be it the Super Bowl, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship, or the Olympic Games. He has hosted programs like CBS’s “The NFL Today” and SHOWTIME’s “Inside the NFL,” where his analysis and insights have always been a center of praise.

A spontaneous and dedicated person Lesley Visser, his longtime colleague, praises his personality saying,”Greg never cared about fame. He was focused on his work and building a good bond with his colleagues. He was always a team player.”For his colleagues and fans, Greg’s voice was not just that of a commentator, but that of a friend, guide and a source of positivity.

Greg Gumbel’s Social Contributions In addition to broadcasting, Greg’s social contributions were also very important. His association with charitable organizations such as March of Dimes and St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital reflect his sensitivity and commitment to the community.He was a member of the St. Jude’s Sports Council for 16 years and was twice elected to the March of Dimes Board of Trustees. He also contributed for several years as a member of the Board of Regents of his alma mater, Loras College.

Sports Community Grief-Stricken The sports community is grieving Greg’s death. CBS Sports and other big names in the industry, such as Ernie Johnson and Magic Johnson, remembered him.Ernie Johnson said, “It was an honor to work with Greg Gumbel. His professionalism and gentlemanly personality will never be forgotten.”

Greg’s voice will live on forever Greg Gumbel was a pioneer who broke new records as an African-American broadcaster. He broke barriers and set an example. His work will remain an inspiration to his fans and future broadcasters.Greg’s passing is not just the passing of an individual, but the passing of an entire era. His voice and personality will live on forever in the world of sports broadcasting.

Family and Legacy Greg leaves behind his wife Marcy and daughter Michelle, who will keep his memories alive. The Gumbel family said in its statement,”His life was an inspiration to all of us. He taught us the importance of love and dedication. His work and his love will always be in our hearts.”The world of sports broadcasting has lost an icon, but Greg’s memories and his contribution will always be remembered.

Disclaimer: This article is written for thought and tribute purposes only. The information provided is based on credible sources and news outlets. If any omission or misstatement occurs, it is not expected. The purpose of the article is to honor the personality and contributions of Greg Gumbel, without disrespecting any individual, organization or community.