Ashley Dewitt

Written by Ashley Dewitt

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

23-surprising-facts-about-bob-costas
Source: Variety.com

Bob Costas is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and respected figures in the world of sports journalism. With his distinct voice, insightful commentary, and extensive knowledge, Costas has become a familiar face on television screens for decades. While many might be familiar with his work as a sports broadcaster, there are numerous surprising facts about Costas that make him an even more fascinating personality. From his early career beginnings to his personal life, there is much to discover about this iconic figure. In this article, we will explore 23 surprising facts about Bob Costas that shed light on the man behind the microphone and provide a deeper understanding of his remarkable journey in the realm of sports and entertainment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Bob Costas is a legendary sports commentator who has won 28 Emmy Awards, interviewed famous athletes, and written books. He’s a respected authority in sports broadcasting and a voice for social justice.
  • With a passion for storytelling and a deep love for baseball, Bob Costas has covered a wide range of sports and hosted the Olympics nine times. He’s a versatile, respected, and iconic figure in sports broadcasting.
Table of Contents

Bob Costas has won 28 Emmy Awards.

Bob Costas, the iconic sports commentator, is no stranger to recognition. With an impressive track record, he has been honored with a total of 28 Emmy Awards throughout his illustrious career.

Bob Costas began his career at a young age.

From a budding sportscaster to a household name, Bob Costas started his career at the age of 22 when he joined NBC as the narrator for the ABA’s Spirits of St. Louis basketball team.

Bob Costas has covered a wide range of sports.

Known for his versatility and expertise, Bob Costas has covered numerous sports over the years, including baseball, football, basketball, hockey, and the Olympics.

Bob Costas has hosted the Olympics a record-breaking nine times.

As one of the most recognizable hosts of the Olympic Games, Bob Costas has held the prestigious position of anchoring the event a remarkable nine times, solidifying his status as a trusted and respected figure in sports broadcasting.

Bob Costas has been inducted into multiple Hall of Fames.

With his extensive contributions to sports journalism, Bob Costas has rightfully received recognition in various Hall of Fames, including the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Hall of Fame and the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame.

Bob Costas has interviewed numerous notable figures.

Throughout his career, Bob Costas has had the privilege of sitting down with some of the biggest names in sports and beyond, including Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, and many more.

Bob Costas has written books.

Besides his exceptional broadcasting skills, Bob Costas is also an accomplished author. He has written several books, including “Fair Ball: A Fan’s Case for Baseball” and “100 Yards of Glory: The Greatest Moments in NFL History.”

Bob Costas has been a part of iconic sports moments.

As a front-row witness to history, Bob Costas has been present at countless memorable sports moments, from epic comebacks to record-breaking performances, bringing these magical moments to viewers around the world.

Bob Costas has collaborated with renowned broadcasters.

Over the course of his career, Bob Costas has had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most esteemed broadcasters in the industry, including Al Michaels, Dick Enberg, and Pat Summerall.

Bob Costas has been a commentator for multiple Olympics opening ceremonies.

With his unique blend of eloquence and knowledge, Bob Costas has become synonymous with the Olympic Games, serving as the commentator for the opening ceremonies on several occasions.

Bob Costas has a distinctive voice.

Recognized for his smooth and charismatic voice, Bob Costas has captivated audiences for decades with his exceptional delivery and ability to articulate complex sports stories.

Bob Costas is actively involved in charitable endeavors.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob Costas is dedicated to making a positive impact on society. He has supported various charitable causes, including the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation and Stand Up To Cancer.

Bob Costas has received the Ford C. Frick Award.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to baseball broadcasting, Bob Costas was honored with the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award by the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Bob Costas has been praised for his versatility.

One of the greatest assets of Bob Costas is his adaptability. Whether covering a high-intensity game or conducting a heartfelt interview, he seamlessly transitions between different roles with ease and grace.

Bob Costas has a passion for storytelling.

With a deep appreciation for sports history and its impact on culture, Bob Costas revels in the art of storytelling, bringing sports narratives to life through his engaging and insightful commentary.

Bob Costas has hosted his own talk show.

Expanding his repertoire, Bob Costas hosted his own talk show, “Costas Now,” on HBO. The show provided a platform for in-depth discussions on various sports topics and current events.

Bob Costas has been a voice for social justice.

Using his platform, Bob Costas has spoken out on important social issues that intersect with the world of sports. His thoughtful commentary has shed light on topics such as racial equality, domestic violence, and the role of athletes in society.

Bob Costas has won multiple Sportscaster of the Year awards.

Continuing to be recognized for his excellence in sports broadcasting, Bob Costas has been honored with numerous Sportscaster of the Year awards from respected organizations such as the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

Bob Costas has a deep love for baseball.

Baseball holds a special place in Bob Costas’ heart. He has been a prominent voice in the sport, serving as the longtime host of NBC’s coverage of Major League Baseball, including the World Series.

Bob Costas has a vast knowledge of sports history.

With a remarkable ability to recall important sporting events and their significance, Bob Costas is a walking encyclopedia of sports history, providing viewers with valuable insights and context.

Bob Costas has been honored with the Curt Gowdy Media Award.

Recognizing his outstanding contributions to sports media, Bob Costas received the prestigious Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Bob Costas has lent his voice to documentaries.

Bob Costas’ captivating narration has been featured in various documentaries, adding depth and credibility to these thought-provoking films.

Bob Costas continues to be a respected authority in sports broadcasting.

Even after decades in the industry, Bob Costas remains highly respected and regarded as one of the greatest sports broadcasters of all time. His insights, commentary, and presence have become synonymous with excellence in the field.

Conclusion

Bob Costas is undoubtedly a legendary figure in the world of sports broadcasting. With a career spanning over four decades, he has become synonymous with excellence, knowledge, and professionalism. Throughout his illustrious journey, Costas has wowed audiences with his insightful commentary, captivating storytelling, and unparalleled interviewing skills.

From his early days as a local radio announcer to becoming the face of major sporting events like the Olympics and Super Bowl, Costas has left an indelible mark on the industry. His ability to seamlessly switch between sports and adapt to any situation sets him apart from the rest.

With a voice that exudes authority and a passion for the games he covers, Bob Costas has become a household name. His dedication to his craft, attention to detail, and genuine love for the sports he covers have endeared him to fans all around the world. As he continues to make his mark as one of the greatest sportscasters of all time, there’s no doubt that Bob Costas will forever be remembered as a true icon in the world of sports journalism.

FAQs

1. When did Bob Costas start his broadcasting career?

Bob Costas began his broadcasting career in the early 1970s while studying at Syracuse University. He started by covering local radio assignments before eventually transitioning to television.

2. What sports does Bob Costas specialize in?

Bob Costas is widely known for his expertise in multiple sports, including baseball, football, basketball, and the Olympics. He has covered numerous major events in these sports throughout his career.

3. How many Olympic Games has Bob Costas hosted?

Bob Costas has hosted a record-breaking 12 Olympic Games, making him one of the most recognizable and respected figures in Olympic broadcasting history.

4. Has Bob Costas won any awards for his work?

Yes, Bob Costas has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to sports broadcasting. He has won the Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality a staggering eight times.

5. What is Bob Costas’ most memorable moment on air?

Bob Costas has had countless memorable moments on air, but one that stands out is his emotional and eloquent speech on gun control during a Sunday Night Football broadcast in 2012. The heartfelt commentary sparked a nationwide conversation on the issue.

If you enjoyed learning about Bob Costas' remarkable career, why not explore more fascinating facts about other sports broadcasting legends? Discover the incredible journey of former NFL player turned commentator Dan Dierdorf, whose insights have captivated audiences for decades. Dive into the rich history of NBC Sports, a network that has revolutionized sports coverage and brought countless memorable moments to fans worldwide. Finally, delve into the world of sports journalism by uncovering the astonishing facts about Michael Wilbon, a trailblazer who has left an indelible mark on the industry.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.