Greg Gumbel, the legendary sports broadcasting host and commentator, has died at the age of 78 after a battle with cancer, his family tells CBS Sports.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel,” the family said in a statement shared by CBS. “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 was a recognizable voice of NFL coverage across CBS and NBC for more than 30 years, including as a host of “The NFL Today” on CBS and as the network’s lead announcer, according to NBC Sports.
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“The CBS Sports family is devastated by the passing of Greg Gumbel,” CBS Sports President and CEO David Berson said in a statement. “There has never been a finer gentleman in all of television. He was beloved and respected by those of us who had the honor to call him a friend and a colleague.”
“Greg Gumbel was broadcasting royalty,” said CBS Sports’ Jim Nantz. “He was as selfless a broadcaster as anyone in the industry has ever known. Our careers intersected for nearly 35 years, and he was the consummate teammate and friend.”
Gumbel is the older brother of former NBC TODAY show co-host and “Real Sports” on HBO.
Full statement from Marcy and Michelle Gumbel, as provided by CBS Sports:
“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.”
