Longtime NBC Sports Anchor George Michael Has Died Updated 11:00 AM EST, Thu, Dec 24, 2009
George Michael, the longtime NBC4 sports anchor known nationally for his syndicated sports highlights show “The George Michael Sports Machine,” passed away early Thursday morning at Sibley Hospital.
Michael was 70 years old.
Known for his boisterous and energetic style, Michael anchored the sports desk for WRC-TV, NBC’s D.C. affiliate, for more than 25 years, beginning in 1980. Started as a local program in the early ‘80s, “The Sports Machine” was syndicated in 1984.
“George Michael was our friend and colleague for more than 25 years,” NBC4 said in a statement released Thursday morning. “He was a dynamic force around our newsroom and in the entire Washington area. George was a pioneer in sports broadcasting. He was a gifted interviewer, a master storyteller and one of the hardest working journalists out there. Our hearts go out to his wife, Pat, and his daughter, Michelle, both of whom also worked with us for many years, as well as the rest of his family.”
Very sad. For those old enough to remember the pre-Machine days of his "Sports Final" show ... that was ground-breaking in terms of local TV. ESPN wasn't close to what it is now and it gave many more people access to Sunday NFL highlights.
He and Glenn Brenner -- for whom I had the honor to intern for a summer -- ruled DC sportscasting.
I wasn't aware that he was fighting leukemia. Everytime I heard him, he sounded more energetic than anyone around. Most recently, he spoke with the Sports Junkies re: Snyder's passion for winning (right around the time the people wanted to revolt).
Anywho. He will be missed. I enjoyed his shows and his enthusiasm. I remember his segments being THE segments I wanted to watch.
I always hated when Wally Bruckner would fill in for him. It felt like such a letdown.
Anyway. God bless his friends and family as they deal with his passing.
