Howard Cosell

Definition

Howard Cosell was a prominent American sports journalist and broadcaster known for his distinctive voice and outspoken commentary style. He played a crucial role in shaping sports journalism and broadcasting, particularly through his work on 'Monday Night Football,' where he brought a new level of analysis and entertainment to the medium, significantly influencing how sports are reported on television.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Howard Cosell was known for his blunt commentary and willingness to address controversial topics, making him a polarizing figure in sports media.
2. He was one of the first broadcasters to focus on the social issues surrounding sports, such as race relations and athlete rights.
3. Cosell's partnership with former NFL star Frank Gifford and comedian Don Meredith on 'Monday Night Football' created a dynamic that attracted millions of viewers.
4. His unique style combined humor with serious analysis, which helped elevate sports commentary from mere reporting to a form of entertainment.
5. Howard Cosell was inducted into the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame in recognition of his influential career and contributions to sports broadcasting.

Review Questions

• How did Howard Cosell's approach to sports journalism challenge the norms of broadcasting during his time?
  • Howard Cosell's approach was groundbreaking because he blended serious analysis with entertainment, which was uncommon in sports broadcasting at that time. He was not afraid to tackle controversial subjects, such as athlete activism and social issues, bringing depth to the discussion around sports. This made him a distinct voice that set new standards for how sports were reported on television, influencing future generations of broadcasters.
• In what ways did Howard Cosell impact the popularity and format of 'Monday Night Football' during its early years?
  • Howard Cosell significantly impacted 'Monday Night Football' by introducing a new style of commentary that emphasized personality and storytelling. His interactions with co-hosts Frank Gifford and Don Meredith created an engaging atmosphere that drew viewers in. This format combined play-by-play coverage with humorous banter and serious discussions about the game and its broader implications, leading to high ratings and establishing 'Monday Night Football' as a cultural phenomenon.
• Evaluate Howard Cosell's legacy in the context of modern sports journalism and broadcasting practices.
  • Howard Cosell's legacy is seen in the way modern sports journalism balances analysis, entertainment, and social commentary. His fearless approach to discussing important issues paved the way for contemporary journalists who address similar topics today. The emphasis on personality in broadcasting can also be traced back to Cosell's influence, as he demonstrated that commentators could engage audiences while providing insightful analysis. His work has inspired a generation of sports journalists to be more vocal about societal issues within the world of sports.

Related terms

Sports Journalism: The practice of reporting on sports events and issues, often encompassing writing, broadcasting, and other forms of media communication.

Monday Night Football: A weekly television broadcast of professional football games in the United States that became a significant platform for sports commentary, especially with Cosell as a commentator.

Play-by-Play Announcer: An individual who narrates the events of a game or event as they happen, providing detailed descriptions and analysis to enhance viewer understanding and engagement.