Howard Cosell, an iconic sports journalist whose unmistakable voice resonated through the airwaves, left an indelible mark on American sports broadcasting. Amidst his illustrious career covering boxing matches, football games, and Olympic events, Cosell’s personal life remained a testament to his commitment to family.
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The Cosell Family: Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Isidore and Nellie Cohen, Howard Cosell’s journey into the world of sports journalism began against the backdrop of a challenging childhood. Raised by his mother in New York, Cosell pursued degrees in English literature and Law at New York University. His entry into the legal profession paved the way for encounters with sportsmen and actors, shaping the trajectory of his career.
A Patriotic Pursuit: Cosell’s commitment to his country led him to serve in the United States Army Transportation Corps during World War II, where he rose to the rank of major. Post-war, he delved into law, representing notable clients from the realm of sports and entertainment.
From Law to the Limelight: The transition from law to sports casting marked a pivotal moment in Cosell’s career. A friend’s suggestion propelled him into the world of radio, where he became a voice on sports casting. ABC recognized his talent, and soon, Cosell found himself with his own show, ‘Speaking of Sports,’ laying the foundation for his prominent career in television.
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Family Ties: Beyond the glitz of the broadcasting world, Howard Cosell was a devoted family man. He married Mary Edith Abrams ‘Emmy’ Cosell in 1944, and together they shared a life that included the joy of raising two daughters, Jill and Hilary Cosell. Emmy’s untimely death from a heart attack marked a turning point in Cosell’s life, coinciding with a decline in his health.
The Cosell Legacy: Hilary and Jill Cosell, the daughters of Howard and Emmy, carry forward the legacy of a man who revolutionized sports commentary. While Howard left an indelible mark on the airwaves, his influence and dedication to family remain central to his legacy. The Cosell family’s story is a testament to the multifaceted life of a man who, beyond the fame of Monday Night Football and Olympic coverage, was a father and husband.
The Final Chapter: In 1995, at the age of 77, Howard Cosell’s journey came to an end. A cardiac embolism claimed his life, marking the close of a chapter that had seen him navigate the highs and lows of the sports and entertainment industry.
Remembering Howard Cosell: As we reflect on the life of Howard Cosell, we unveil not just the renowned sports commentator but also the father and family man. His impact on sports broadcasting endures, and the lives of Hilary and Jill Cosell stand as a living tribute to a man who, in the words of his famous saying, always told it like it is.
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