ESPN revealed devastating news on Sunday. Analyst Chris Mortensen has died at the age of 72. Mortensen was a regular on iconic shows like Sport Centerry NFL live. Following his death, the president of ESPN referred to Mortensen as an “industry pioneer” in his statement.
“Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally loved as a supportive and hard-working teammate,” Pitaro said in the statement.
“He covered the NFL with extraordinary skill and passion and was at the top of his field for decades. “He will be truly missed by colleagues and fans alike, and our hearts and thoughts go out to his loved ones.”
Peyton Manning reacts to Chris Mortensen’s death
Mortensen was a staple on ESPN. He joined the media giant in 1991 and became a name synonymous with NFL coverage. Mortensen’s name became so synonymous with the NFL that throughout his tenure he earned the respect of NFL legends. Former star quarterback Peyton Manning was among several who paid tribute.
“We lost a true legend,” Manning said in his post. “Mort was the best in the business and he valued our friendship. I confided in him my announcement of signing with the Broncos and the news of my retirement. I will miss him dearly and my thoughts and prayers are with Micki and his family. Rest in peace, Mort.”
ESPN analyst Adam Schefter also weighed in, saying it was a “devastating day” following his death.
“An absolutely devastating day. Mort was one of the greatest reporters in sports history and an even better man,” Schefter said. “My deepest condolences to his family and to everyone who knew and loved him. Many did. Mort was the best. We will miss him and remember him forever.”
NBA analyst reacts to the death of a journalist
Mortensen was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2016. So he took some time away from ESPN last year to focus on his health. Although he was a giant in the field of NFL coverage, Mortensen has earned the respect of his peers across the sports journalism landscape.
ESPN senior NBA expert Adrian Wojnarowski called him a “giant of a man and journalist.”
“A true giant of a man and a journalist,” Wojnarowski said. “One of the great thrills of ESPN was meeting and learning from Mort. My deepest condolences to his family and friends and good luck to a legend.”
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn