Legendary CBS sportscaster and play-by-play analyst Greg Gumbel has died after losing his battle with cancer.
According to a statement from the family released by CBS Sports on Friday, Gumbel passed away after battling an undisclosed cancer but was reportedly well-supported and with his family until the end.
That statement read, "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."
The statement continued saying, "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. — Marcy & Michelle Gumbel."
While the family has been sparing with the details of Gumbel's cancer, fans were devastated to hear of Gumbel's passing as he has been a fixture in the sports world for decades.
As soon as news of Gumbel's death broke, tributes from around the sporting world poured in from friends and fans alike.
Gumbel has become a nationally recognized figure due to his calling of many important NFL games, especially playoff games. He was also a staple of Selection Sunday and would announce the teams as they were selected for March Madness.
Fellow sports commentator Tim Brando took to X to say, "Last March when we were told Greg Gumbel was taking off from @MarchMadnessMBB on @CBSSports I feared it was something serious. According to published reports my worst fears were true. Apparently he’s died at age 78. A sportscasting GIANT. Greg could do it all."
Once again, Gumbel was very private with his health battle as his death seems to have shocked the sporting community and many of those around him.
Gumbel missed March Madness because of a family health issue which almost made it sound like he wasn't actually involved.
Tragically, that wasn't the case and now the sporting world has lost an iconic voice that many sports fans can instantly recognize and will keep Gumbel's memory alive for years to come.
Announcer Nick Yeoman said in a tribute on X that, "I’m not sure there’s been a more pleasant and easy to listen to voice in the “host” role of an event/studio show than Greg Gumbel. An absolute pillar to CBS’ NFL/MarchMadness coverage for decades. One of those voices you lose but can’t replace."
Two decades of calling play-by-play for the NFL will cement someone in the national consciousness.
While the NFL was his main arena, he also did play-by-play work for Major League Baseball games on both CBS and NBC and anchored coverage of other events, including college football, the College World Series, and even the Olympics.
Gumbel leaves behind a loving family which includes his wife and his daughter who will dearly miss him. Gumbel is also survived by his younger brother, Bryant Gumbel NBC's Today fame.
