Written by Selina
Modified & Updated: 01 Feb 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Richard Keys, a name that has been synonymous with sports broadcasting for decades, has carved a niche for himself in the world of football commentary. Though he has stirred up some controversy with his recent marriage to his daughter’s best friend (age 35), let’s look at 20 fascinating facts about this seasoned broadcaster.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 23, 1957, in Coventry, England, Richard Keys developed a passion for football from a young age. He attended the University of London, where he studied History.
Early Broadcasting Career
Keys began his broadcasting career with Radio City in Liverpool. He then moved on to work for Piccadilly Radio and later joined Independent Radio News.
Joining Sky Sports
In 1990, Keys joined the newly formed Sky Sports. He was one of the main football presenters and quickly became a familiar face to viewers.
Hosting Premier League
Keys was the main host of Sky Sports Premier League coverage from its inception in 1992 until 2011. His partnership with co-presenter Andy Gray was a key feature of the coverage.
Controversy and Departure from Sky Sports
Keys resigned from Sky Sports in 2011 following a controversy involving off-air comments made by him and Andy Gray about a female assistant referee. The incident sparked a debate about sexism in sports broadcasting.
Move to Talksport
After leaving Sky Sports, Keys and Gray moved to Talksport Radio. They hosted a show together, continuing their long-standing professional partnership.
Move to Al Jazeera
In 2013, Keys moved to Doha, Qatar, to work for Al Jazeera (now beIN Sports). He hosts a variety of football shows, including coverage of the Premier League and other major European leagues.
Hosting World Cup Coverage
Keys has hosted coverage of several World Cups, both for Sky Sports and beIN Sports. His knowledge and understanding of the game have made him a popular choice for such high-profile events.
Authoring a Book
Keys authored a book titled “The Keys to the World” in 2017. The book provides an insight into his life and career in sports broadcasting.
Personal Life
Keys is married to Julia Keys. They have two children together, Jemma (an actress) and Josh (a football agent).
Health Issues
Keys has faced health issues in recent years. He underwent heart surgery in 2019 and has been open about his health struggles.
Social Media Presence
Keys is active on social media, particularly Twitter, where he shares his views on football and engages with fans and critics alike.
Famous Catchphrase
Keys is known for his catchphrase “and it’s live!”, which he uses to introduce live football matches. The phrase has become synonymous with him.
Podcast with Andy Gray
Keys and Gray host a podcast together, where they discuss football and interview various personalities from the world of sports.
Involvement in Charity Work
Keys is involved in various charitable activities. He has used his platform to raise awareness and funds for several causes.
Passion for Golf
Apart from football, Keys is a passionate golfer. He often shares his golfing exploits on social media.
Views on VAR
Keys has been vocal about his views on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in football. He has expressed his concerns about its implementation and impact on the game.
Love for Animals
Keys is a known animal lover. He has apet dog named Murphy, who often features on his social media.
Respect in the Industry
Despite the controversies, Keys is respected in the industry for his knowledge of football and his broadcasting skills. He has interviewed many high-profile figures in the world of football.
Legacy
Keys’ contribution to sports broadcasting, particularly football, is significant. His career, spanning over three decades, has seen him become one of the most recognized faces in the industry.
Conclusion
Richard Keys’ journey in the world of sports broadcasting is a story of passion, controversy, and resilience. From his early days in radio to his current role at beIN Sports, Keys has left an indelible mark on football commentary. As he continues to share his insights and opinions on the beautiful game, his influence on sports broadcasting remains significant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did Richard Keys start his broadcasting career?
Richard Keys started his broadcasting career with Radio City in Liverpool. He later joined Sky Sports in 1990.
What controversy led to Richard Keys’ departure from Sky Sports?
Keys resigned from Sky Sports in 2011 following a controversy involving off-air comments made by him and Andy Gray about a female assistant referee.
Where does Richard Keys work now?
Keys currently works for beIN Sports, based in Doha, Qatar.
What is Richard Keys’ catchphrase?
Keys is known for his catchphrase “and it’s live!”, which he uses to introduce live football matches.
Has Richard Keys authored any books?
Yes, Keys authored a book titled “The Keys to the World” in 2017, providing insight into his life and career in sports broadcasting.
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