Jim McKay American television sports journalist. Date of Birth: 24.09.1921 Country: USA

1. Jim McKay: American Television Sports Journalist
2. Rise to Prominence
3. The Munich Olympics and Beyond
4. Legacy and Awards

Jim McKay: American Television Sports Journalist

Jim McKay was an American television sports journalist who gained fame as the host of the popular ABC show "Wide World of Sports" and as a commentator for the Olympic Games, including the tragic events of the 1972 Munich Olympics. He was born on September 24, 1921, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a Catholic family. McKay attended Our Lady of Lourdes Grade School and later Saint Joseph's Preparatory School. When he was fourteen, his family moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where he enrolled in Blakefield High School.

Rise to Prominence

After graduating from Loyola College in 1943, McKay received a bachelor's degree. He then served in the United States Navy during World War II. In the late 1940s, Jim McKay transitioned from a newspaper reporter to a television commentator and joined the new television station WMAR-TV. In 1950, he became the host of the television show "The Real McKay" and began to commentate on various sports events. Shortly after, McKay moved to ABC, where he worked for over forty years and became one of the most renowned sports commentators.

The Munich Olympics and Beyond

The year 1972 was a significant one for Jim McKay. During the Munich Olympics, a terrorist attack resulted in the death of eleven hostages. McKay provided continuous commentary for fourteen hours during the tragic event. His dedication and professionalism earned him praise and two Emmy Awards. From 1994 to 2006, McKay also commentated on the FIFA World Cup, delighting fans around the world. In 2002, he served as a special correspondent for the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Legacy and Awards

In 2003, a documentary film titled "Jim McKay: My World In My Words" was released, highlighting both his personal and professional achievements. Jim McKay was a talented individual who received numerous awards, the majority of which were for his outstanding journalism. He passed away on June 7, 2008, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of sports broadcasting. That same year, NBC honored McKay during the closing ceremony of the Summer Olympics.