*After a 29-season run, HBO’s “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel” is coming to an end.
In an announcement Wednesday, Gumbel said he’s “ready to turn the page.”
“Since day one at Real Sports we’ve consistently tried to look beyond the scoreboard, and focus instead on the many societal issues inherent in the world of sports. In the process we’ve had the opportunity to tell complex stories about race, gender, class, opportunity and so much more,” Gumbel said in a statement, Deadline reports.
“Being able to do so at HBO for almost 3 decades has been very gratifying. I’m proud of the imprint we’ve made, so I’m ready to turn the page. Although goodbyes are never easy, I’ve decided that now’s the time to move on,” he continued.
Gumbel has hosted the award-winning investigative sports program since it premiered in April 1995. Throughout the show’s history, “Real Sports” has won 37 sports Emmys and three Peabodys.
“For 29 seasons, Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel has delivered a masterclass in sports storytelling,” said Casey Bloys, chairman and CEO of HBO and Max Content.
“As the longest-running HBO series, Bryant and his Real Sports team have long been a cornerstone of HBO programming. The series will continue to resonate in the realm of sports journalism, and we are so proud to have been part of such a remarkable odyssey,” Bloys continued.
Gumbel’s illustrious television career also included co-hosting NBC’s “GrandStand” from 1975 to 1982, covering the NFL. Additionally, he co-hosted CBS’s “Today Show” and “The Early Show.” He received the Sports Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award this year.
Tune in to Season 29 of “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel” on Sept. 26 at 10 p.m. ET on HBO.
READ MORE: Throwback Vid Shows Bryant Gumbel Confused About the Internet
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