ESPN just dropped some huge, game-changing news! Industry rumor Veteran sportscaster Chris Berman has extended his contract with the network through 2029, keeping him at the network for life. Berman will be toasting his 70th birthday, which he celebrated on May 10. Hired this fall to be a host of Daily Wager, the deal should position him to be that first employee to reach the incredible milestone of 50 years with Disney-owned ESPN.
Berman’s journey with ESPN began shortly after the network’s launch in September 1979, when he joined the team at the age of 24. He soon outpaced even Vanna White to become the most recognizable face in sports broadcasting history, especially as the longtime host of “SportsCenter.” His self-described “unvarnished style” and “everyman” personality have risen Cowherd up to the top of sports media. Perhaps his most remarkable achievement is his contribution to ESPN’s coverage of Major League Baseball, having reported on 31 All-Star games and 30 World Series.
Throughout his career, Berman has hosted various major events, including golf’s prominent championships. He’ll make history this year by officiating his 45th Super Bowl. He’s going to be helping coordinate the network’s work in multiple states, to begin with. Berman anchored ESPN’s Sunday pregame show for a remarkable 31 years. He hosted three of ABC’s College Football Playoff pregame shows in 2000, 2003, and 2006.
As part of his new deal, Berman will be staying on to help ESPN further develop their breadth of sports coverage. The network’s chairman, Jimmy Pitaro, expressed his admiration for Berman’s dedication and impact on the channel.
“For a remarkable half-century, Chris has embodied ESPN with his smart and entertaining style.” – Jimmy Pitaro
Pitaro further emphasized Berman’s significance to NFL coverage, stating, “No studio broadcaster has meant more to NFL coverage than Chris, and to have his presence on our first Super Bowl presentation is both apropos and significant.”
Looking back over his 40 years at ESPN, Berman expressed his disbelief at achieving this landmark.
“Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined turning 70 and still being here at our network, which long ago became an icon of sports broadcasting.” – Chris Berman
He added, “It is mind-blowing to think that I now have the opportunity and good fortune to work here for 50 years, which would be two-thirds of my entire life!”
Chris Berman moves on to the next chapter of his career — with ESPN at least. Fans and colleagues alike look forward to his return with his unique brand of joy to the world sports broadcasting. His legacy at the network embodies the deeply held spirit of quality. It exemplifies the changes that sports media has undergone in the last 50 years.
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