Howard Cosell Net Worth

What was Howard Cosell's net worth?

Howard Cosell was an American sports journalist who had a net worth of $5 million. Howard Cosell was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in March 1918 and passed away in April 1995. Cosell's style has been described as brassy, blustery, arrogant, obnoxious, pompous, cruel, vain, and verbose. In 1993, TV Guide named Howard "The All-Time Best Sportscaster," and in 1996 ranked him #47 on their "50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time." One of his most famous calls was "Down Goes Frazier!" during the 1973 fight between Joe Frazier and George Foreman. Cosell was a commentator on Monday Night Football with Frank Gifford and "Dandy" Don Meredith. On the evening of December 8, 1980, Howard broke the news of John Lennon's death during Monday Night Football. Cosell was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1994 and received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in 1995. Howard Cosell passed away on April 23, 1995 at the age of 77 from a cardiac embolism.

Early Life and Education

Cosell grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and attended New York University, where he earned a degree in English. After graduation, he served in the United States Army during World War II, ultimately achieving the rank of major. Following his military service, Cosell attended law school at New York University and began practicing law in Manhattan. However, his passion for sports would eventually lead him to pursue a career in sports journalism.

Breaking into Broadcasting

Howard Cosell's entry into the world of sports journalism began when he started covering the Little League in New York City. He quickly gained a reputation for his insightful and detailed reporting. In the mid-1950s, Cosell caught the attention of ABC Radio, which led to his first job as a sports broadcaster. This opportunity marked the beginning of a long and successful career with the network.

Monday Night Football and Boxing

In 1970, Cosell was chosen as one of the original commentators for ABC's groundbreaking "Monday Night Football" program. Alongside his co-hosts Frank Gifford and Don Meredith, Cosell brought professional football into the living rooms of millions of Americans each week. His distinctive voice, candid commentary, and on-air chemistry with his fellow broadcasters helped make "Monday Night Football" a cultural phenomenon.

Cosell was also a prominent figure in the world of boxing, serving as the ringside commentator for many high-profile fights throughout the 1960s and 1970s. His association with legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, whom he interviewed numerous times, further elevated his status as a leading sports journalist.

Wide World of Sports and Olympics Coverage

In addition to his work on "Monday Night Football" and boxing, Cosell was a fixture on ABC's "Wide World of Sports" program. For more than two decades, he provided commentary and analysis for a wide range of sporting events, from the Olympics to the Indianapolis 500. Cosell's coverage of the 1972 Munich Olympics, during which he reported on the tragic terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 11 Israeli athletes, remains one of the most memorable moments in sports journalism history.

Controversies and Criticisms

Throughout his career, Howard Cosell was no stranger to controversy. His outspoken and unfiltered approach to reporting often garnered both praise and criticism. Cosell was unafraid to tackle sensitive issues, such as race and politics, in his commentary, which sometimes led to backlash from fans, fellow journalists, and the sports world.

One such incident occurred in 1983 when Cosell referred to a Washington Redskins wide receiver using a racially insensitive term during a "Monday Night Football" broadcast. Despite the ensuing controversy, Cosell remained unapologetic and continued to call games for the remainder of the season.

Retirement and Legacy

Howard Cosell retired from broadcasting in 1985, ending a career that spanned more than three decades. He left behind a legacy as one of the most influential and iconic voices in the history of sports journalism. His groundbreaking work in the field set the standard for future generations of sports journalists and broadcasters.

In recognition of his contributions to the world of sports, Cosell was posthumously honored with numerous awards and accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and an induction into the American Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame.