Greg Gumbel is an accomplished American sportscaster known for his extensive work in television sports broadcasting. Over his illustrious career, Gumbel has covered major events for several leading networks, including CBS, NBC, and ESPN.
He has become a familiar face and voice to sports fans across the country, bringing his insightful commentary and engaging personality to a wide array of sports, from the NFL to NCAA basketball. As the older brother of renowned journalist Bryant Gumbel, Greg has made his own significant mark in the world of sports media, earning respect and admiration for his professionalism and expertise.
Greg Gumbel Biography
Greg Gumbel, an esteemed American sportscaster, was born on May 3, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Renowned for his significant contributions to sports broadcasting, Gumbel’s career spans several decades, marked by his work with major networks like CBS, NBC, and ESPN. Throughout his career, he has become a trusted and respected figure in sports media. For more detailed information about Greg Gumbel’s professional journey, personal life, achievements, and contributions to sports broadcasting, you can explore his biography and discover various aspects of his life and career.
Greg Gumbel Wiki
| Full Name | Greg Gumbel |
| Birthdate | May 3, 1946 |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in English, Loras College |
| Career | – Started at WMAQ-TV, Chicago |
| – Worked at MSG, ESPN, WFAN Radio | |
| – Joined CBS in 1988 | |
| – Transitioned to NBC in 1994 | |
| Notable Roles | – Host of “The NFL Today” (1990-1993, 2004) |
| – Play-by-play for Super Bowls and Olympics | |
| Family | Wife: Marcy Gumbel |
| Daughter: Michelle Gumbel | |
| Residence | Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA |
| Political Views | Disagreed with Clarence Thomas’ viewpoints |
| Legacy | Third person to host and provide play-by-play |
| duties for Super Bowls | |
| Famous Quote | “I personally find his words and viewpoints |
| unnecessary in my discourse.” |
Greg Gumbel’s Early Years
Greg Gumbel, a prominent figure in American sports broadcasting, was born on May 3, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is the eldest child of Richard Gumbel, a distinguished judge, and Rhea Alice LeCesne. Greg’s early years were spent in Chicago’s South Side, where he was raised in a Catholic household. His foundational education took place at the De La Salle Institute, a prestigious Catholic high school known for its rigorous academic and moral instruction.
Upon graduating from high school, Gumbel pursued higher education at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. Here, he not only obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in English but also showcased his athletic prowess as a member of the college’s baseball team. His college years were instrumental in shaping his future, providing him with the educational background and discipline that would later support his broadcasting career.
Greg’s family played a significant role in his upbringing and development. He has two sisters, Renee Gumbel-Farrahi and Rhonda Gumbel-Thomas, who have been supportive throughout his journey. This familial support, coupled with his solid educational foundation, paved the way for Greg to enter the world of sports broadcasting, where he has since made a lasting impact. His journey from a young man in Chicago to a renowned sportscaster is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
Greg Gumbel Career
In 1973, Greg Gumbel’s career took a pivotal turn when his brother Bryant Gumbel, who was then a television sportscaster at KNBC in Los Angeles, informed him about an audition for a sports announcer position at WMAQ-TV, an NBC-owned station in Chicago. At that time, Greg was working in Detroit, selling hospital supplies. Seizing the opportunity, Greg auditioned for and secured the job, prompting his return to Chicago, where he spent seven years honing his craft at WMAQ-TV. Interestingly, the position he filled had been previously held by Dennis Swanson, who later became the president of ABC Sports.
Before achieving prominence at CBS, Greg Gumbel gained valuable experience at several notable networks, including MSG, ESPN, and WFAN radio in New York City. At ESPN, he became a recognizable face as an anchor for SportsCenter and provided play-by-play commentary for early NBA games. His tenure at MSG saw him serving as a backup announcer for Marv Albert during New York Knicks broadcasts and covering college basketball. When MSG secured a significant contract to broadcast New York Yankees games in 1989, Gumbel took on the role of host for the pregame and postgame shows.
In addition to his television work, Greg Gumbel also made his mark in radio. He was the inaugural host of the morning show on WFAN, a prominent sports radio station. However, his tenure there was relatively short-lived, as he was eventually replaced by the well-known WNBC Radio personality Don Imus when WFAN assumed WNBC’s AM 660 frequency. These varied roles across different media platforms significantly contributed to Greg Gumbel’s development as a versatile and respected sportscaster.
First CBS stint
Greg Gumbel’s career at CBS began in 1988 with part-time work as an NFL announcer. By 1989, he had also started announcing college basketball games. His role expanded significantly when he became the host of “The NFL Today” from 1990 to 1993, working alongside Terry Bradshaw. During this period, Gumbel also anchored CBS’s coverage of Major League Baseball, college football, and in 1999, he covered major NASCAR events like the Daytona 500 and the Pepsi 400.
In addition to his hosting responsibilities, Gumbel provided play-by-play commentary for NBA games with Quinn Buckner, Major League Baseball including the 1993 American League Championship Series with Jim Kaat, and College World Series baseball.
Greg Gumbel also played a significant role in CBS’s Olympic coverage. He served as the prime-time anchor for the 1994 Winter Olympic Games held in Lillehammer, Norway, and co-anchored the weekday morning broadcasts of the 1992 Winter Olympics in Albertville, France. His versatility and expertise across various sports have solidified his reputation as a leading figure in sports broadcasting.
NBC Sports
In 1994, Greg Gumbel transitioned to NBC after CBS lost its broadcasting rights for the NFL and Major League Baseball. His final assignment with CBS was providing play-by-play commentary for the College World Series. At NBC, Gumbel quickly became a key figure, hosting the network’s coverage of the 1994 Major League Baseball All-Star Game. He also provided play-by-play for the 1995 Major League Baseball National League Division Series and National League Championship Series, both alongside Joe Morgan.
Gumbel’s role at NBC was diverse and extensive. He did play-by-play commentary for “The NBA on NBC” and hosted NBC’s daytime coverage of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia. Additionally, he hosted the 1995 World Championships of Figure Skating and served as the studio host for “The NFL on NBC.” His work at NBC further solidified his status as a versatile and highly respected sportscaster, capable of covering a wide range of sporting events with professionalism and expertise.
Current CBS career
Greg Gumbel returned to CBS after NBC’s broadcast of Super Bowl XXXII, taking on the role of studio host for CBS’s college basketball coverage, including the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, a role he continues to excel in. With CBS acquiring the NFL broadcasting rights previously held by NBC, Gumbel joined the NFL broadcast team as the lead announcer, partnering with Phil Simms. From 1998 to 2003, Gumbel served as the primary announcer for the NFL on CBS, calling Super Bowls XXXV and XXXVIII.
In 2004, Gumbel transitioned to hosting “The NFL Today,” swapping roles with Jim Nantz, who became the lead announcer. At the end of the 2005 NFL season, James Brown replaced Gumbel as the studio host of “The NFL Today,” prompting Gumbel to return to the broadcast booth as the second play-by-play commentator, alongside Dan Dierdorf until his retirement after the 2013–14 NFL season. Subsequently, Gumbel worked with Trent Green from 2014 to 2019, and in 2018, he was part of a three-man booth with Green and Bruce Arians. In 2020, Gumbel partnered with Rich Gannon before teaming up with Adam Archuleta in 2021 after CBS chose not to renew Gannon’s contract.
CBS Sports renewed its contract with Gumbel on March 15, 2023, allowing him to continue his role in college basketball coverage while stepping back from NFL duties. However, due to family health issues, Gumbel was notably absent from the March Madness coverage in 2024. His enduring presence and adaptability in sports broadcasting have solidified his legacy as a versatile and respected commentator.
Greg Gumbel Personal Life
Greg Gumbel, his wife Marcy, and their daughter Michelle have made their home in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area. This coastal city, known for its vibrant lifestyle and beautiful beaches, provides a serene backdrop for the Gumbel family’s residence. Greg, a distinguished sportscaster, balances his career with family life in this sunny locale, where they enjoy the tropical climate and diverse cultural offerings of South Florida. Their presence in Fort Lauderdale underscores their connection to the community and the pleasant surroundings they call home.
Politics
In 1999, Greg Gumbel opted out of attending a NASCAR banquet honoring Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, citing fundamental disagreements with Thomas’ political viewpoints. Gumbel has also made appearances on Howard Stern’s radio program. Expressing his perspective on figures like Rush Limbaugh, Gumbel has remarked, “I personally find his words and viewpoints unnecessary in my discourse.” These instances highlight Gumbel’s stance on political and media figures, reflecting his individual viewpoints and principles.
Legacy
Greg Gumbel holds the distinction of being only the third person to fulfill both hosting and play-by-play duties for Super Bowls, following in the footsteps of Dick Enberg and Al Michaels. He hosted Super Bowls XXVI, XXX, and XXXII, then proceeded to provide play-by-play commentary for Super Bowls XXXV and XXXVIII. Jim Nantz later joined this elite group by calling Super Bowl XLI for CBS.
During his tenure as the main anchor of The NFL Today, Gumbel collaborated with co-anchors Dan Marino, Shannon Sharpe, and Boomer Esiason. Known affectionately by his nickname “Gumby,” Gumbel and his team brought their unique perspectives and insights to viewers, enhancing the game-day experience for NFL fans across the country.
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Facts
Full Name: Greg Gumbel
Birthdate: May 3, 1946
Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Family: Greg is the eldest child of Richard Gumbel, a judge, and Rhea Alice LeCesne. He has two sisters, Renee Gumbel-Farrahi and Rhonda Gumbel-Thomas.
Education: Greg attended the De La Salle Institute in Chicago and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa.
Career Highlights:
- Started his broadcasting career at WMAQ-TV in Chicago after an audition recommended by his brother Bryant Gumbel.
- Worked at MSG, ESPN (anchored SportsCenter and NBA games), and WFAN radio in New York City (hosted the morning show).
- Joined CBS in 1988 as an NFL announcer and expanded to host “The NFL Today” from 1990 to 1993.
- Transitioned to NBC in 1994, covering MLB, NBA, and the Olympics.
- Returned to CBS after NBC lost NFL rights, continuing to cover NFL and college basketball.
Personal Life: Greg Gumbel, his wife Marcy, and their daughter Michelle reside in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
FAQS
Who is Greg Gumbel?
Greg Gumbel is a highly accomplished American sportscaster renowned for his extensive career in television sports broadcasting. He has covered major sporting events for CBS, NBC, and ESPN, becoming a familiar voice to sports fans nationwide.
When and where was Greg Gumbel born?
Greg Gumbel was born on May 3, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
What is Greg Gumbel known for?
Greg Gumbel is known for his versatility and professionalism in covering a wide array of sports, including NFL and NCAA basketball. He has hosted and provided play-by-play commentary for Super Bowls and other major sporting events.
What are Greg Gumbel’s career highlights?
Greg Gumbel began his broadcasting career at WMAQ-TV in Chicago and later worked at networks like ESPN, where he anchored SportsCenter and covered NBA games. He joined CBS in 1988 and has since hosted “The NFL Today” and various other sports programs.
Where does Greg Gumbel live?
Greg Gumbel, along with his wife Marcy and daughter Michelle, resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, enjoying the vibrant lifestyle and scenic beaches of the area.
What are Greg Gumbel’s political views?
Greg Gumbel has expressed his stance on political figures, notably declining to attend a NASCAR banquet honoring Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas in 1999 due to disagreements with Thomas’ viewpoints. He has also made appearances on Howard Stern’s radio show and expressed disapproval of figures like Rush Limbaugh.
What is Greg Gumbel’s legacy in sports broadcasting?
Greg Gumbel holds the distinction of being only the third person to fulfill both hosting and play-by-play duties for Super Bowls. His insightful commentary and contributions to programs like “The NFL Today” have enhanced the game-day experience for NFL fans nationwide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Greg Gumbel stands as a pillar in American sports broadcasting, renowned for his extensive career spanning major networks like CBS, NBC, and ESPN. From his humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming a household name, Gumbel’s journey is marked by versatility and professionalism, covering a wide range of sports from NFL to NCAA basketball. His legacy is underscored by his unique ability to host and provide play-by-play commentary for iconic events such as Super Bowls and the Olympics, earning respect for his insightful commentary and engaging personality. Beyond his professional achievements, Greg Gumbel’s commitment to family and community in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, reflects his balanced approach to life, making him not only a respected sportscaster but also a beloved figure in the world of sports media.
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