ESPN broadcaster Chris Berman has announced his retirement plans, confirming he will leave the network following the 2029 football season. The 70-year-old, known affectionately as 'Boomer', has been with ESPN since its launch in 1979, marking 50 years of service.
Speaking on the CNBC Sport podcast, Berman revealed he had informed ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro of his intention to complete a half-century at the network. 'I did tell our president, Jimmy Pitaro, when they were foolish enough to sign me — I'm going to be here 50 years,' he recalled. 'You may never have another guy or woman here (50 years). I don't know.' Berman added that he expects to receive a gold Mickey Mouse watch to mark the milestone.
The sports commentator acknowledged that he is already semi-retired, having scaled back his appearances. 'I'll be almost 75, I think the nation's more than had enough of me,' he said. 'I'm semi-retired now. I'm just so proud of where we've been from Day 1 to getting a Super Bowl.' ESPN is set to broadcast Super Bowl LXI in February 2027, with Berman expected to play a significant role.
Berman's career includes iconic work on SportsCenter, NFL Primetime, and Monday Night Countdown, as well as MLB coverage. He is famous for catchphrases such as 'He could…go…all…the…way!' and 'Back, back, back, back…Gone!' In May 2025, ESPN extended his contract, with Pitaro praising his 'smart and entertaining style' and stating that 'Boomer's enjoyment of sports jumps through the screen'.
