Legendary sports announcers Bob Costas and Al Michaels made a nostalgic return to the Olympic stage during NBC’s coverage of the 2024 Paris Games. The two iconic broadcasters, who have become synonymous with Olympic memories for many viewers, appeared together on Sunday to reminisce about past Olympic Games and celebrate the achievements of American athletes.
A Nostalgic Trip Down Olympic Memory Lane
Costas and Michaels, both of whom have a storied history with NBC’s Olympic broadcasts, took the opportunity to reflect on some of the most memorable moments in Olympic history. They shared stories from previous Games hosted in U.S. cities and highlighted the incredible feats of athletes like Carl Lewis, Kerri Strug, and the legendary 1980 U.S. men’s hockey team—an event immortalized by Michaels’ famous call, “Do you believe in miracles?”
Their appearance was not just a look back at the past but also a nod to the future, as they discussed the excitement surrounding the next Summer Olympics, which will be held in Los Angeles in 2028. The reunion of these two broadcasting giants added an extra layer of excitement to NBC’s coverage, blending the rich history of the Olympics with anticipation for what’s to come.
A Crossover Moment with Snoop Dogg
Adding to the fun of their reunion, Costas and Michaels were photographed alongside rapper Snoop Dogg, who has become a unique fixture at the 2024 Paris Games. Snoop Dogg, who served as an Olympic torchbearer and has been a commentator for NBC during the Games, joined the duo at the beach volleyball venue near the Eiffel Tower on July 31. The image of these three cultural icons together quickly became a viral moment, showcasing the blend of tradition and modernity that the Paris Olympics have embraced.
The Legacy of Bob Costas and Al Michaels
Bob Costas, now 72, is a veteran of 12 Olympic Games, having served as NBC’s primetime host from 1988 to 2016. His deep knowledge of sports, combined with his warm and engaging style, made him a beloved figure for viewers over the decades. Though he officially left NBC in 2019, Costas continues to lend his voice to the world of sports as a play-by-play announcer for “MLB on TBS” and a contributor for CNN.
In an interview with The Athletic’s Richard Deitsch in 2022, Costas explained his decision to step back from NBC, stating that his last Olympic appearance in 2016 and his final year hosting NFL coverage were part of a carefully planned exit. “That plan included an emeritus clause, a five-year window and maybe beyond, where as they put it, I would be to sports what Tom Brokaw had been to news,” Costas shared.
Al Michaels, at 79, is equally revered, particularly for his legendary call during the “Miracle on Ice” at the 1980 Lake Placid Games. After joining NBC from ABC in 2006, Michaels became a familiar face on the network’s Olympic and NFL broadcasts. Although he stepped down from his role on “Sunday Night Football” in 2022, Michaels continues to make his mark as the lead play-by-play announcer for Amazon Prime’s “Thursday Night Football.” His voice, recognized by millions, has even been re-created using A.I. technology as part of NBC’s Olympic coverage on their streaming platform, Peacock.
A Fitting Tribute to Olympic Broadcasting Legends
The return of Bob Costas and Al Michaels to NBC’s Olympic coverage was a moment that delighted sports fans and TV audiences alike. Their guest appearances in Paris served as a reminder of the incredible moments they’ve helped bring to life over the years and set the stage for the next generation of broadcasters who will carry the Olympic torch forward.
As the Paris Games continue, the presence of these two broadcasting legends added a special touch to the event, reminding viewers of the timeless nature of the Olympic spirit and the voices that have helped define it for decades.