Al Michaels is one of the most iconic voices in American sports broadcasting, known for his unparalleled play-by-play commentary across a vast array of sports, from the NFL to the Olympics. With a career spanning over six decades, Michaels has become synonymous with major sports moments, earning a well-deserved spot among the broadcasting elite. As of 2025, Al Michaels has a net worth of $40 million, a reflection of his decades of hard work and dedication to sports journalism.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on November 12, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, Al Michaels was raised in a sports-oriented family. His father, Jay Leonard Michaels, was a medical equipment salesman, and his mother, Lila Roginsky, had a background in real estate. Growing up in Brooklyn, Michaels became a passionate fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers, a love that would later fuel his dedication to sports.
In 1958, Michaels’ family moved to Los Angeles, the same year the Dodgers relocated to the West Coast. This transition would be pivotal in shaping his future career, as it exposed him to the growing sports culture in Southern California. Michaels went on to attend Arizona State University, where he majored in radio and television with a minor in journalism. His college years were crucial in shaping his career path, as he worked as a sports writer for The State Press, the university’s independent student newspaper, and served as the announcer for various Sun Devils sports events on the campus radio station.
Michaels’ younger brother, David, is also involved in television production, having worked on major programs like NBC’s Olympic coverage and Fox Sports Net’s Beyond the Glory series. Al’s personal life is equally fulfilling, as he has been married to his wife, Linda, since 1966, and the couple has two children, Jennifer and Steven. Steven Michaels is a successful businessman, serving as the President and CEO of Asylum Entertainment, an independent film company based in Los Angeles.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Michaels’ journey to becoming a broadcasting legend wasn’t immediate. His first job in television was with Chuck Barris Productions, working on The Dating Game. However, it was his move into sports broadcasting that would define his career. In 1964, Michaels started as a public relations assistant for the Los Angeles Lakers but was fired after just four games. Undeterred, he moved to Honolulu in 1968 and resumed his broadcasting career with KHVT-TV as a sports anchor. Michaels’ skills quickly became evident, as he was named Hawaii’s Sportscaster of the Year in 1969.
His first major break came in 1971 when he moved to Cincinnati, where he became the play-by-play announcer for the Cincinnati Reds. He covered the Reds’ World Series appearance in 1972, and his exposure on NBC during the Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan, marked the beginning of his long relationship with the network. Michaels’ big break in the NFL came in 1973, when he replaced Bill Enis at NBC, providing play-by-play commentary for the NFL. In 1977, he signed with ABC Sports, where he would remain for nearly three decades, broadcasting a wide range of sports, including football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, and even the Olympics.
Legendary Moments and Memorable Calls
Al Michaels’ career is defined by his memorable calls during pivotal sports moments. Perhaps his most famous line came during the 1980 Winter Olympics when he exclaimed, “Do you believe in miracles?!?” as the U.S. hockey team defeated the Soviet Union in a historic upset. The Miracle on Ice remains one of the most iconic moments in Olympic history, and Michaels’ call is etched in the memories of millions of Americans.
Another unforgettable moment occurred in 1989 during the World Series when an earthquake struck San Francisco just before Game 3 was set to begin. Michaels, who was on air at the time, delivered the now-legendary line, “Well folks, that’s the greatest open in the history of television, bar none!” His quick wit and ability to adapt to such unprecedented situations only added to his reputation as one of the best broadcasters in the business.
Throughout his career, Michaels called countless memorable moments in sports history, from Super Bowls to Olympics, baseball to boxing. His ability to capture the excitement and drama of live sports has made him a household name.
Career Achievements and Salary
Al Michaels’ salary reflects his importance in the broadcasting world. During his time with NBC, Michaels was earning $8 million per year, a figure that demonstrates his value to the network. In March 2022, Michaels signed a three-year, $33 million deal with Amazon to broadcast Thursday Night Football, further cementing his standing as one of the highest-paid broadcasters in sports.
Michaels’ long tenure with NBC included hosting Sunday Night Football and calling Super Bowls, where he became known for his ability to craft compelling narratives and deliver precise, engaging commentary. He retired from NBC in 2022, but his legacy as one of the greatest sports broadcasters of all time remains intact.
Accolades and Recognition
Over the course of his illustrious career, Al Michaels has won numerous accolades, including five Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Personality and Play-by-Play Host. He has also been recognized as the National Sportscaster of the Year three times and was inducted into the Hall of Fame by both the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association and the Television Academy. His contributions to the field were further recognized in 2004 when he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
In 2013, Michaels was awarded the Pete Rozelle Radio & Television Award, presented by the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor is reserved for those who have made exceptional contributions to radio and television in professional football.
Personal Life and Controversies
Al Michaels has lived a relatively quiet personal life, largely staying out of the tabloids. However, his life has not been entirely without controversy. In 2013, he was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Michaels ultimately pled no contest to a reduced charge of reckless driving, receiving probation and community service as part of his sentence.
Despite this setback, Michaels’ career continued to flourish, and he remains a respected figure in sports broadcasting.
Conclusion
Al Michaels’ net worth of $40 million reflects his monumental impact on the world of sports broadcasting. From his legendary calls during pivotal moments in sports history to his steady salary from high-profile networks, Michaels has built a career that is as memorable as the games he called. Whether it was broadcasting the Miracle on Ice or navigating the chaos of the 1989 World Series earthquake, Michaels’ quick wit, precise analysis, and deep understanding of sports made him a beloved figure. As he continues to enjoy his retirement, Al Michaels’ legacy will forever be intertwined with the great moments of sports broadcasting.