Bryant Gumbel is a respected figure in American broadcast journalism and sports reporting. Known for his articulate presentation, sharp intellect, and long-standing career with major networks like NBC and HBO, Gumbel has become one of the most recognizable names in television journalism. As a host of major news and sports programs for decades, his presence shaped public conversation and viewer expectations. As media trends evolve and his public appearances become more selective, many people are asking: Is Bryant Gumbel still alive? This article answers that question definitively and explores his current health, career legacy, and influence in modern journalism.
Is Bryant Gumbel Still Alive?
Yes, Bryant Gumbel is still alive. As of 2025, he is 76 years old and remains active in the world of journalism. While his public appearances have become less frequent in recent years, Gumbel continues to serve as host of the award-winning HBO series Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel and remains an influential voice in sports journalism and investigative reporting.
Despite health concerns in the past, Gumbel has continued to work selectively and appears to be in stable health. His continued engagement with media and storytelling ensures his relevance even decades after his network television debut.
Health Status and Cancer Battle
In December 2009, Bryant Gumbel publicly revealed that he had undergone surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his lung. The announcement came during a guest appearance on Live with Regis and Kelly, where he shared that part of his lung had been removed and that he had undergone additional treatment to ensure the cancer had not spread.
He chose to keep the diagnosis private during his initial treatment phase, but after the procedure was successful, he expressed optimism about his recovery and encouraged others to remain vigilant about their health.
Since then, Gumbel has not reported any recurrence of the illness, and he continues to appear periodically in public and on television. His battle with cancer is seen as a testament to his strength and commitment to continuing his career while managing his health.
Early Life and Education
Bryant Charles Gumbel was born on September 29, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Bates College in Maine, where he graduated in 1970 with a degree in Russian history. He later received an honorary doctorate from the same institution.
Gumbel initially worked as an editor for Black Sports magazine before transitioning to television. His early work in local news helped him build the credibility and presence that would define his long career in broadcasting.
From the beginning, he was known for his intelligence, deep voice, and commitment to preparing thoroughly for every assignment.
Rise to Fame at NBC
Bryant Gumbel joined NBC Sports in the mid-1970s as a sportscaster, covering events such as NFL games and Major League Baseball. His professionalism and poise quickly earned him national recognition.
In 1982, he was selected to co-host NBC’s Today Show, becoming the program’s first African American anchor. He went on to serve in that role for 15 years, establishing himself as a versatile broadcaster capable of handling both hard news and human-interest stories.
During his tenure, Today dominated morning television ratings and became a fixture in American households. Gumbel’s interviews, coverage of major world events, and natural command of the broadcast format won him critical acclaim.
Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel
In 1995, Gumbel became the host of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, an investigative sports news magazine on HBO. The show was unlike traditional sports programs—it focused on in-depth storytelling, social issues, and behind-the-scenes stories that often went ignored by mainstream outlets.
Under his leadership, Real Sports won multiple Emmy Awards and received praise for journalistic integrity. The program covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Doping in professional sports
- Corruption in the Olympics
- Abuse scandals in athletics
- Gender inequality and racial discrimination in sports
Gumbel’s calm yet probing interview style brought attention to serious topics while maintaining the audience’s trust. As of 2025, he continues to serve as host and executive producer of the program.
Notable Achievements and Awards
Bryant Gumbel’s career has been defined by excellence, longevity, and integrity. He is one of the most decorated figures in television journalism, having received numerous honors, including:
- Four Emmy Awards for Real Sports
- Edward R. Murrow Award for Lifetime Achievement in Broadcast Journalism
- Peabody Award for Outstanding Public Service Reporting
- Sportscaster of the Year honors from the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association
These awards reflect not only his success but also his influence in reshaping how sports journalism is conducted—focusing not just on scores and stats, but on people, policy, and power.
Personal Life and Family
Bryant Gumbel was married to June Baranco from 1973 until their divorce in 2001. The couple had two children. In 2002, he married Hilary Quinlan, a researcher and writer. The couple resides in New York and maintains a relatively private life.
Gumbel’s younger brother, Greg Gumbel, is also a well-known sportscaster, best known for his work with CBS Sports. Together, the Gumbel brothers have broken racial barriers and become icons in broadcast journalism.
Despite decades in the public eye, Bryant Gumbel has always kept his family life private and dignified, preferring to let his professional work speak for itself.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Bryant Gumbel’s impact on journalism is far-reaching. As one of the first African American anchors to host a national morning show, he helped pave the way for greater diversity in television news.
His influence also lies in his journalistic approach—thorough research, calm delivery, and the willingness to ask difficult questions without sensationalism. He set a high standard for news broadcasting and is credited with helping elevate the role of sports journalism from entertainment to serious reportage.
Younger journalists, especially in sports media, continue to cite Gumbel as a role model for integrity and excellence. His work has shown that sports stories can—and should—address deeper cultural, political, and ethical issues.
Recent Appearances and Media Involvement
While Gumbel has reduced his on-screen presence in recent years, he continues to appear on Real Sports and occasionally participates in media panels or interviews, especially on topics related to journalism ethics and sports policy.
His commentary during the COVID-19 pandemic and athlete protests against racial injustice gained renewed attention for its clarity and conviction. In these rare moments, Gumbel reminded viewers why he remains one of the most trusted voices in media.
He has also participated in documentaries and retrospectives about the evolution of American television news, offering unique insight into its transformation over the last 50 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bryant Gumbel still alive?
Yes, Bryant Gumbel is alive as of 2025. He remains active as the host of Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel on HBO.
How old is Bryant Gumbel?
He is 76 years old. He was born on September 29, 1948.
Did Bryant Gumbel have cancer?
Yes, in 2009, he had surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his lung. He has since recovered and resumed professional activities.
What is Bryant Gumbel known for?
He is best known for co-hosting Today on NBC and for his Emmy Award–winning HBO program Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel.
Is Bryant Gumbel still working?
Yes, though selectively. He continues to host Real Sports and appears in special interviews and public media discussions.
Conclusion
Bryant Gumbel is still alive and remains a pillar of integrity in American journalism. His long career in both news and sports broadcasting has made him one of the most respected voices in media. Though he has faced health challenges, he continues to inspire through his work on Real Sports and his occasional appearances in public discourse.
As audiences evolve and new media formats emerge, Bryant Gumbel’s influence continues to guide journalists on the importance of depth, ethics, and authenticity. His legacy as a pioneer, professional, and public figure remains strong—and very much alive.