Sad news came from the sports world today.
Broadcasting legend Greg Gumbel has died at the age of 78.
News of Gumbel’s death comes courtesy of a statement released by his wife, Marcy Gumbel, and their daughter, Michelle Gumbel.
Greg Gumbel’s cause of death revealed
The family revealed today that Gumbel died after battling cancer.
“He passed away peacefully, surrounded by much love, after a courageous battle with cancer,” the statement said. “Greg approached his illness with the care, grace and positivity one would expect.
“He leaves a legacy of love, inspiration and dedication for more than 50 extraordinary years in the sports broadcasting industry; And his iconic voice will never be forgotten,” Gumbels told CBS Sports.
The first public sign of Gumbel’s illness came in March, when he missed his first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1997.
According to ESPN, Gumbel cited “family health issues” as the reason for his absence.
a wonderful career
During his 50-year career, Gumbel broke barriers and became synonymous with some of the biggest events in sports.
In 2001, when he announced Super Bowl XXXV for CBS, he became the first black broadcaster to deliver play-by-play at a major American sports championship.
CBS Sports President and CEO David Burson praised Gumbel in a statement released to ESPN today.
Burson said, “A tremendous broadcaster and talented storyteller, Greg led one of the most remarkable and unprecedented sports broadcasting careers of all time.”
Greg Gumbel is survived by his wife and daughter, as well as several siblings, including fellow broadcaster Bryant Gumbel.
Our thoughts are with the entire Gumbel clan during this difficult time.