Longtime sports anchor, announcer Greg Gumbel dies at 78

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Greg Gumbel, who broadcast the NFL on CBS and served as the network's studio host for March Madness, has died at the age of 78.

Gumbel's family said in a statement that Gumbel died after a bout with cancer.

"He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace and positivity," Marcy and Michelle Gumbel wrote.

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CBS announcer Greg Gumbel before the national championship of the 2021 NCAA Tournament between the Gonzaga Bulldogs and the Baylor Bears at Lucas Oil Stadium.  (Kyle Terada/USA Today Sports)

Emmy-winning producer Dan Forer announced Gumbel's death in a Facebook post.

"The holidays are supposed to be filled with joy, but they are often mixed with sorrow. I just learned that my dear friend Greg Gumbel has passed," he wrote, via the New York Post. 

"Greg was the best announcer a young producer/director could have because he was extremely inclusive and never ever lost his cool — except for the time we were shooting a Super Bowl Anti-Drug PSA in the South Bronx at 2am and live gunfire erupted. That was the only occasion Greg raised his voice and had a few choice words for me; which I deserved.

"In addition to being a true professional he was a kind, magnificent man. May his memory be a treasured blessing for his family and friends."

CBS commentator Greg Gumbel before a game between the Duke Blue Devils and the North Carolina State Wolfpack at PNC Arena.  (Rob Kinnan/USA Today Sports)

Gumbel missed last year's tournament due to "family health issues."

Gumbel called the