Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth were a match made in broadcasting heaven for NFL enthusiasts. For over 21 seasons, these two made football Sundays a ritual, their voices being almost synonymous with the games they commented on. From 2000 to 2021, they paired together, captivating audiences and setting the benchmark in sports broadcasting. However, the landscape shifted in 2022, leading to Michaels parting from NBC and venturing into new territories, while Collinsworth stayed behind.
- The Financial Lure for Al Michaels
- Summary of al michaels and cris collinsworth
- Emotions Behind the Shift
- The New Broadcasting Dynamics
- Future Ventures and Partnerships
- Public Reactions
- A Legacy Left Behind
Contents
The Financial Lure for Al Michaels
It wasn't personal; it was strictly business. When Al Michaels' contract with NBC was drawing to a close, Amazon Prime Video stepped in with an offer too lucrative to refuse. A whopping annual contract ranging from $15 million to $16 million for three years ensured that Michaels would lend his voice for Amazon's new Thursday Night Football package.
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Summary of al michaels and cris collinsworth
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 13, 2022 | Al Michaels announces departure from NBC after Super Bowl. |
| March 8, 2022 | Amazon Prime Video ropes in Al Michaels for Thursday Night Football. |
| May 17, 2022 | Mike Tirico to replace Al Michaels for Sunday Night Football on NBC. |
| September 8, 2022 | Michaels comments on Seahawks vs. Broncos for Amazon, while Collinsworth covers Chiefs vs. Eagles for NBC. |
Emotions Behind the Shift
When such longstanding partnerships dissolve, it's only natural for emotions to run high. Collinsworth, in a heartfelt message, mentioned how watching Michaels on Amazon felt like seeing a close one on a date, televised for the nation to see. Despite the change, the camaraderie remained evident. Michaels also reciprocated the sentiment, terming Collinsworth as the best partner a broadcaster could ever wish for.
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The New Broadcasting Dynamics
The transition was new not only for them but for the viewers too. On September 8, 2022, the football community witnessed something unfamiliar. While Michaels commented on the Seattle Seahawks vs. Denver Broncos game for Amazon Prime Video, Collinsworth took charge of the Kansas City Chiefs vs. Philadelphia Eagles clash on NBC.
Future Ventures and Partnerships
The broadcasting terrain has seen a reshuffle. Al Michaels now collaborates with Kirk Herbstreit for the Thursday Night Football episodes on Amazon. On the other hand, Cris Collinsworth is joining forces with Mike Tirico for the Sunday Night Football episodes on NBC.
Public Reactions
The split evoked mixed feelings. Some fans rued the breaking of this iconic duo, with sentiments like “Without Collinsworth, it's an L” circulating on the internet. Others were curious and anticipative about the new partnerships formed in the broadcasting world.
A Legacy Left Behind
Regardless of their individual paths now, Michaels and Collinsworth have left an indelible mark in NFL broadcasting history. Their synergy, deep understanding of the game, and ability to engage the audience have set standards that future broadcasters will aim to emulate.
FAQs
1. Why did Al Michaels leave NBC?
Michaels was offered a lucrative deal by Amazon Prime Video, which was hard to refuse, ranging between $15 million to $16 million annually.
2. Who is Al Michaels' new broadcasting partner?
Michaels is now teaming up with Kirk Herbstreit for Thursday Night Football on Amazon Prime Video.
3. Is Cris Collinsworth still with NBC?
Yes, Collinsworth continues his association with NBC, partnering with Mike Tirico for Sunday Night Football.
4. How long were Al Michaels and Cris Collinsworth broadcasting together?
They were a renowned duo in the NFL broadcasting sphere for 21 seasons, from 2000 to 2021.
