Former Isles Announcer George Michael Dies
- Friday, December 25, 2009 2:55 AM
- Written By: Josh Marks
Former New York Islanders announcer and veteran Washington, D.C. sportscaster George Michael died on Dec. 24 at the age of 70 from chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Before he paved the way for ESPN SportsCenter with his pioneering highlights show, "The George Michael Sports Machine," Michael was a color commentator for the Isles for several seasons in the 1970s.
Links:
AP Obituary
Tribute from the Washington Post's Michael Wilbon
The Washington Capitals paid tribute to Michael on their website with the following statement:
George Michael, legendary sports director and anchor at WRC-TV 4 in Washington, D.C., and the creator and host of the George Michael Sports Machine, passed away Thursday. Michael, who covered the Capitals for decades, was 70.
Ted Leonsis (pictured above being interviewed by Michael on the "Sports Machine" in 2002), Dick Patrick and George McPhee shared their recollections of a Washington sports institution.
“George Michael was one of the most respected, thought-provoking and honest reporters I ever encountered,” said Ted Leonsis, Washington Capitals majority owner. “George never skirted the tough questions and always provided ample opportunity to discuss differing points of view. His knowledge and candor made D.C. a much better sports town. Our thoughts are with George’s family and many friends.”
“I remember first meeting George in the early 1980s,” recalled Dick Patrick, Washington Capitals president. “He had unbelievable energy and passion for sport and people. ‘The George Michael Sports Machine’ show established a new ground in covering and reporting on sports. George always was well prepared for any topic, fair in his commentary, opinionated in his comments and entertaining in his delivery. He was a role model for sportscasters in D.C. and around the country.”
“George Michael held D.C. sports teams to the same high standards he demanded of his broadcasts, and the entire community appreciated him for that,” said George McPhee, Capitals vice president and general manager. “He was passionate and fair, a professional whose impact in this city and the entire sports world will continue to reverberate for years to come.”
