Sportscaster George Michael dies

George Michael, of sportscasting and not Wham! fame, has died.

In a statement, WRC announced Michael’s death:

“George Michael was our friend and colleague for more than 25 years,” WRC said in a statement issued 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.”

Michael was a popular DJ in Philly and New York before transitioning to TV in 1980. He was a fixture at WRC for 28 years, from 1980 t0 2008, before leaving “abruptly” to prevent further layoffs and assist with budget cuts. Michael passed away this morning at Sibley Memorial Hospital in D.C. He was 70.