John Madden Retiring From NFL Broadcasting

Legendary NFL broadcaster John Madden is retiring, NBC has announced. Madden has been in broadcasting for 30 years and is considered the most honored broadcaster in sports television history.

John Madden Retiring

In a statement released Thursday morning, Madden said it was simply time to move on.

“I’m 73 years old. My 50th wedding anniversary is this fall. I have two great sons and their families and my five grandchildren are at an age now when they know when I’m home and, more importantly, when I’m not,” he said.

“It’s been such a great ride…. The NFL has been my life for more than 40 years, it has been my passion–it still is. I appreciate all of the people who are and were such an important part of the most enjoyable, most fun anyone could have… that great life with the teams, the players, the coaches, the owners, the league… my broadcasting partners Pat [Summerall] and Al [Michaels]… the production people and the fans… is still great… it’s still fun and that’s what it makes it hard and that’s why it took me a few months to make a decision.

“I still love every part of it–the travel, the practices, the game film, the games, seeing old friends and meeting new people… but I know this is the right time.”

Madden Retiring: NBC’s Response

NBC Sports Chairman Dick Ebersol responded to Madden’s decision, issuing the following statement:

“I spent all day in the Bay Area yesterday with John and tried every way I could to make sure he was sure about his decision. And in true John Madden fashion, he was sure. He said it best when he simply said ‘it’s time’… and I admire him for that.

“To put any speculation to rest, John has just decided to retire because it’s time–nothing more, nothing less. We will never see or hear another man like John Madden. We will sorely miss him because he was the most fun guy ever to just hang out with.”

Madden’s Award-Winning Run

Madden has won 16 Emmy Awards during his time as a broadcaster. He’s also a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He coached the Raiders from 1969 until 1979, when he stepped away from the field and behind the microphone.