American Sportscasters Association | Hall Of Fame

1997 Hall of Fame Inductee

Jack Whitaker

"The American Sportscasters Association's Hall of Fame is very fortunate.
Each year a new star joins the ranks. This year it is Jack Whitaker.
He adds so much luster. We welcome you, Jack."

-Don Dunphy

Jack Whitaker is a brilliant sports essayist. He has taken sports commentary on television to a new level rivaled by only a few of the greatest sportscasters. He has the uncanny ability to see and interpret events, give them context and perspective and deliver his impressions in a way that leaves a lasting impact upon viewers.

Whitaker began his professional broadcasting career in 1947 on a Philadelphia-area radio station. He then joined WCAU in 1950 as a sportscaster and served as a play-by play announcer for both the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants. From 1961-1981, he worked for CBS Sports where he hosted the anthology series "Sports Spectacular" before joining ABC in 1982. At ABC, Whitaker served as a reporter for both news and sports divisions. He was a part of ABC's sports team at the 1988 Winter Olympic Games and the 1984 Winter and Summer Olympic Games. He has also reported sports for ABC's "World News Tonight", "ABC News Nightline", and "20/20".

Whitaker has covered all three thoroughbred racing's Triple Crown Events, golf's four major championships, and everything from the Super Bowl, to the U.S. Open, to heavyweight championship fights. He also has announced NASL soccer, AAU track and field championships and major league baseball.

Whitaker won an Emmy Award for "Outstanding Sports Personality" in 1979 and received the Maryland Jockey Club's 1983 Hilltop Award for "outstanding coverage of thoroughbred racing for over 20 years". He was named "Best Announcer" by Sports Illustrated in 1976 and received the Kentucky Owners and Breeders, Inc. Engelhard Award in 1973. Whitaker was also honored by his alma mater, St. Joseph's University in his native Philadelphia. He has received honorary Doctor of Arts and Doctor of Humanities Degrees from St. Joseph's and Scranton University, respectively.