Famed radio DJ and sportscaster George Michael died Thursday at age 70 after a battle with cancer.
Michael was best known for his syndicated late-night show entitled: “The George Michael Sports Machine”.
Although broadcast from the Washington DC area, “Sports Machine” was a favorite of mine every Sunday night on NBC.
NBC Sports released the following statement:
“George Michael was our friend and colleague for more than 25 years. 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.”
The last episode of The Sports Machine aired on March 25, 2007. After thanking his co-host, sponsors, syndicators and staff, Michael said this at the end of the show:
“I close every show every Sunday by saying ‘Thank you for letting us be a part of your weekend.’ Well tonight, for the final time, we say, ‘Thank you. Thank you for letting us be a part of your life’. From everyone at the Sports Machine, have a great weekend everybody. We hope to see you somewhere down the road of life. Thank you.”
Michael then walked off camera, and was heard to say “Last one out, turn out the lights!” as the show closed for the final time.
Our condolences go out to his family.
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Wow how sad. Between him and Warner wolf, highlights became necessary to my world and opened my eyes to the great and poor of performances of athletics…Thank You Mr. Michael for fueling my love of sports, R.I.P.
Before ESPN and Fox, there was only George Michael. Very sad to hear he’s gone. I’m getting too old.
I know what you mean, William. I’m getting too old right along with you.
And another ‘Rest in Peace’ to someone else from my childhood.
Do you remember (or anyone else) that he actually started as a DJ on WABC radio back when they played music? That was early to mid 70’s
Oh,
Sorry to hear this. The thing I remember most about The Sports Machine was that he would show you highlights of games outside of our local area long before cable TV existed.
I thought he was in good health, this surprises and saddens me.
George was also a star in one of the funniest videos in Youtube recently. He cannot stop laughing at this model falling down.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0eINGyJHz8&feature=related
RIP George Michael
This saddens me. I remember so many arguments with my mom on Sundays because I’d stay up to watch Sports Machine at 11:30, way past my bedtime on a school night, lol.
Very sad news.. R.I.p.
That’s terrible news. He was good guy with a real love of sports. RIP George Michael
I love the Sports Machine growing up. May god bless be with his family who is suffering a lost right now.