The sports community is mourning the death of a beloved sports photographer, Peter Read Miller, who had a 37-year stint with Sports Illustrated, covering a wide range of sporting events.
Peter Read Miller passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026, leaving his loved ones devastated. Details surrounding his passing have not been disclosed yet.
Born in Pasadena, California, Peter Read Miller developed a passion for photography from a very young age and went on to win the hearts of millions with his amazing photography skills, building a over four-decade-long career in sports photography.
He graduated from the University of Southern California in 1969 and began his professional career as a photojournalist in the early 1970s.
In the mid-70s, Miller started to shoot NFL games.
Prior to that, he photographed college games, having his first assignment for the 1964 USC-UCLA game at the Coliseum in 1964.
Furthermore, Miller’s immense talent for capturing dynamic sports action quickly caught the attention of Sports Illustrated, where he began working as a contract and staff photographer in 1976.
With 37 years of career with Sports Illustrated, Peter Read Miller shot more than 100 SI covers and won numerous awards for his photography, including the Lucie Award for Achievement in Sports. He retired in 2013.
Likewise, throughout his remarkable career of over four decades, Miller covered numerous sports events, including the Olympics, Super Bowls, World Series, and NBA Finals.
He covered 8 Olympic games, 43 Super Bowls, and shot 14 NBA Finals. Miller also covered the Stanley Cup Finals, the World Series, the Kentucky Derby, the NCAA Basketball Final Four, Men’s and Women’s World Cup Soccer Finals, and the World Championship of Freestyle Wrestling in Krasnoyarsk, Siberia.
Beyond SI, Miller also worked with Time, Newsweek, Life, People, Money, Playboy, Runner’s World, USA Weekend, and The New York Times.
Additionally, Miller dedicated his life not only as a sports photographer but also as a mentor within the photography community. He regularly conducted workshops and seminars, sharing his knowledge aspiring numerous photographers around the world.
Since 2014 until his recent passing, Peter Read served as a contributor at AP Images.
Social Media is Filled With Heartfelt Tributes To Late Peter Read Miller
The passing of veteran sports photographer Peter Read Miller has left a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Many of his loved ones are sharing his memories on social media and extending their heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.
One wrote:
“My mentor, my friend, my shining inspiration. The ultimate trailblazer. The most exceptional sports photographer of all time. He held the record for the most Sports Illustrated covers, a testament to his unparalleled talent. He believed in me and took me under his wing, nurturing my growth. A true gentleman with a heart of gold. He selflessly wanted me to soar to new heights. He imparted invaluable wisdom, empowering me to reach new summits. Rest in peace, Peter, your legacy will forever be etched in my heart. We shared seven incredible years on the NFL sidelines, forging an unbreakable bond that transcended time. Because of him, I had the privilege of wearing the coveted NFL vest, meeting my football heroes, and elevating my photography to unprecedented heights. Thank you, Peter, for being an extraordinary mentor and my friend. May your spirit continue to inspire me and countless others. Godspeed.
Jackie Crivello
RIP ðŸ˜I’m going to cry forever.”
Another added:
“As are the real greats in photography he was always very humble and kind hearted and had no ego about his position despite his stature and the amazing portfolio he created for Sports illustrated.A real inspiration for me and the thousands of other photographers he has inspired. A piece of the nostalgia I have for my early days in sports photography has just finished his journey.The true GOAT, PRM !!”
Zamani Feelings
Peter Read Miller’s contribution to the sports community as an exceptional photographer and his kind nature will always be remembered by his loved ones.
His family will soon provide details about his funeral and memorial services.
