Chris Berman Secures Long-Term Deal with ESPN, Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence by 2029

BRISTOL, Conn. — Chris Berman has finalized a new contract with ESPN, ensuring his presence through the network’s 50th anniversary in 2029. The multiyear agreement was announced on Monday, coinciding with Berman’s 70th birthday celebrations.

“Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined turning 70 and still being here at our network, which long ago became an icon of sports broadcasting,” he remarked. He expressed his excitement about participating in the network’s first Super Bowl telecast scheduled for February 14, 2027, in Los Angeles.

Berman joined ESPN just a month after its debut in September 1979, quickly establishing himself as a vital figure. He was among the original anchors of “SportsCenter” and has played an essential role in the network’s NFL and baseball coverage over the decades.

From 1987 to 2005, he hosted “NFL PrimeTime” alongside Tom Jackson. Berman returned to these hosting duties in 2019 with the show’s relaunch on ESPN+.

His contributions to sports broadcasting have been significant. In 2010, he received the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award and has served as the master of ceremonies for the Hall’s induction ceremony since 1999.

ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Berman, stating, “For a remarkable half-century, Chris has embodied ESPN with his smart and entertaining style.” He highlighted the deep connection Berman has nurtured with generations of sports fans.

This development signifies not only a commitment to Berman but also a celebration of ESPN’s enduring legacy in sports broadcasting.