During the postgame of the 2025 Sun Bowl on December 31, CBS abruptly cut off veteran college football analyst Gary Danielson’s emotional farewell mid-sentence to go to commercial, after nearly 20 years with the network and 36 years overall in broadcasting.
For context, Danielson was thanking colleagues when he was rudely interrupted. The move drew criticism on social media for disrespecting the retiring announcer, with some users calling it “unreal.” CBS later posted a tribute clip editing out the incident.
In any case, in the clip, Gary Danielson was wrapping up his comments during his final on-air goodbye when he was abruptly cut off. “We are gonna have a great time tonight,” he said before he was cut short, “Listen, one more thing, it’s sometimes– you can say, how do you get up? This guy right here–”
Social media users were irate about the rude treatment. “CBS cutting off Gary Danielson during his goodbye speech is brutal. Not the biggest Gary fan, as a matter of fact, I don’t like him, but no doubt he’s a legend and super disrespectful and a bad look on CBS,” one comment read.
“Shame on @CBS for cutting off the end of Gary Danielson talking. I know he was about done but let him finish,” another social media user stated. Agreeing, one account said, “CBS really cut to commercial on that sign-off from Gary Danielson? Absolutely despicable where we are and what gets prioritized.” Rounding out the comments, a sports fan noted, “CBS cutting off a guy’s final sign off is such a corporate move. Let the man have 20 seconds of respect, damn.”
Announcing his retirement in March of 2025, Gary Danielson said, “I have discussed the timing of this moment with CBS Sports leadership over the past few years, and we felt it was important I remained with the team during our transition to the Big Ten. As we enter our second full season of Big Ten football and my 20th at CBS Sports, the timing just feels right.”
Watch the clip here:
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Reacting to the announcement, David Berson, CBS Sports president and CEO, issued a statement. “Gary Danielson is simply one of the greatest college football analysts ever. And an even better teammate. Gary cares more about uplifting others and ensuring the team receives all the accolades.”
Continuing his commentary, the CEO noted, “During his 20 years here, he helped propel CBS Sports to the gold standard in college football coverage. We can’t thank him enough; he will always be part of the CBS Sports family, and we wish him the best in retirement.”
Charles Davis, who was set to replace the beloved commentator, wished him well in retirement. “Gary has been the preeminent voice in college football for decades, and someone I have long admired and respected,” he respectfully said.
Wrapping up his statement, he added, “It is hard to imagine college football Saturdays without him, but I am thrilled we get one last season with him. There is no replacing Gary, but I am truly honored and humbled to succeed him and call games with Brad Nessler and the incredible Big Ten on CBS team.”
Featured image from embedded video