NBC to Reunite Legendary Broadcasters Costas and Michaels for 2024 Paris Olympics
In a surprising turn of events, NBC is planning a major reunion for the 2024 Paris Olympics, bringing back legendary broadcasters Bob Costas and Al Michaels. This move marks a reconciliation after both left the network under somewhat contentious circumstances.
Bob Costas, the iconic prime-time host of 12 Olympic Games from 1988 to 2016, and Al Michaels, famous for his legendary "Do you believe in miracles?" call during the 1980 Winter Olympics at Lake Placid, are set to make surprise on-air appearances during NBC's coverage of the upcoming games.
On Wednesday, Costas and Michaels were spotted with NBC guest commentator Snoop Dogg at the beach volleyball venue near the Eiffel Tower, enjoying the festivities and engaging with fans. The duo also participated in a CEO panel organized by CNBC, a sister network of NBC, highlighting their continued influence and relevance in the sports broadcasting world.
Costas parted ways with NBC in 2019 after a remarkable 40-year career, while Michaels stepped down from his role as the Sunday Night Football announcer in 2022, passing the baton to Mike Tirico. Michaels then transitioned to Amazon Prime Video's Thursday Night Football, yet NBC retained his "emeritus" status. Recently, Michaels agreed to allow NBC to use an artificial intelligence version of his voice to narrate Olympic highlights from Paris, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation in sports broadcasting.
"They're icons in this industry, and it would be great for viewers," said NBC spokesman Greg Hughes to Front Office Sports. "We expect to make that happen."
This planned reunion of Costas and Michaels at the Paris Olympics is more than just a nod to nostalgia; it’s a testament to their enduring legacies and the indelible marks they've left on Olympic coverage. As NBC looks to leverage their storied careers, viewers can anticipate a blend of classic commentary and modern broadcasting techniques, ensuring a memorable Olympic experience.
The return of Costas and Michaels is poised to be one of the highlights of the 2024 Paris Olympics, bringing together the past and present of sports broadcasting in a spectacular fashion.
