Bryant Gumbel successfully overcame a health crisis involving lung cancer and is now reportedly doing well.
Born on September 29, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Byant began his television career in 1972 as a sportscaster for KNBC-TV in Los Angeles.
By 1975, he was co-hosting NBC Sports’ National Football League pre-game show, “GrandStand“.
Over the years, he covered major sporting events, including the 1988 Summer Olympics and PGA Tour.
In 1982, Gumbel transitioned to journalism as the principal anchor of NBC’s show “Today.” Later, he joined CBS and other programs.
Bryant Gumbel Later Revealed His Battle With Lung Cancer To The Public!
Bryant Gumbel faced a serious health challenge in 2009 when he was diagnosed with lung cancer.
He underwent surgery to remove a malignant tumor and part of his lung.
Despite the severity of the situation, he kept his diagnosis private for months, even from his colleagues.
He later revealed the news during a guest appearance on “Live With Regis and Kelly.”
He shared that the surgery was extensive, saying:
They opened up my chest, they took out a malignant tumor, they took out part of my lung and they took out some other goodies.
Fortunately, Gumbel’s treatment was successful, and by December 2010, he shared that he was “free and clear” of cancer.
After fully recovering, he hosted HBO’s investigative series, “Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel.” However, he concluded this in 2023 after an impressive 29-season run.
While he has been keeping a lower profile in recent years, he remains engaged in various projects.
Previously he was a heavy smoker earlier in his life, reportedly smoking up to three packs a day for over a decade.
However, he quit smoking around 30 years before his lung cancer diagnosis.
Despite quitting, the long-term effects of his past smoking likely contributed to his health condition.
Additionally, Bryant has experienced noticeable weight loss over the years. He clarified that his weight loss was partly due to his effort to stay fit and healthy.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Gumbel was married to June, and they have two children together. However, they divorced, and he married Hilary Quinlan.
- He made cameo roles in various movies and TV series, such as The Weather Man, Seinfeld, and The Nanny.
- He was the first black co-host of NBC’s Today Show.
