Greg Gumbel, the esteemed CBS Sports Anchor, has passed away at the age of 78 following a valiant battle with cancer

Greg Gumbel, the beloved CBS sports anchor, has passed away at the age of 78 due to a cancer diagnosis.

Gumbel’s family released a statement stating that he “passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer.” According to his daughters, Marcy and Michelle Gumbel, Greg confronted his illness with the stoicism, grace, and positivity that one would anticipate.

Dan Forer, an Emmy-winning producer, also confirmed Gumbel’s passing in a touching Facebook post, where he reflected on the professional and personal attributes of his devoted friend.

“The holidays are intended to be a time of joy, but they are frequently accompanied by melancholy.” Forer wrote, “I have recently discovered that my dear friend Greg Gumbel has passed away.”

He also recounted a memorable incident: “Greg was the most exceptional announcer a young producer/director could have, as he was incredibly inclusive and never lost his composure. However, there was one instance when we were filming a Super Bowl Anti-Drug PSA in the South Bronx at 2 a.m. and live gunfire erupted.”

Gumbel, who was the first African American to call a major sports championship after covering the 2001 Super Bowl, was also a significant character in March Madness, anchoring the NCAA Tournament for CBS. Throughout his extensive tenure, he was employed by MSG, ESPN, and WFAN. His responsibilities included the broadcast of New York Knicks and Yankees events, as well as the coverage of numerous Olympic events. The most recent NFL game that Gumbel anchored was in 2022. He will be profoundly missed by his family, colleagues, and fans.