Thom Brennaman, once a prominent voice in sports broadcasting, faced a significant setback in 2020 when he was removed from the booth following a homophobic comment caught on a hot mic. Fast forward to this fall, and he’s making a comeback, this time calling college football games for the CW Network. His journey back to the mic has sparked discussions about redemption, accountability, and the power of second chances.
Thom Brennaman’s Return to Broadcasting
After a four-year hiatus, Brennaman returned to the broadcast booth as the lead play-by-play announcer for the CW’s college football coverage. His first game back was on August 31, featuring a matchup between Oregon State and Idaho State. This return marks a significant moment in his career, as he expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity. “There are no words to describe how grateful I am that they’re rolling the dice,” Brennaman told reporters. “They don’t have to do this.”
The CW has been making strides in the sports programming arena in 2023, and Brennaman’s hiring is part of that effort. The network recognized his extensive experience and the potential for his return to resonate with audiences. But why did the CW decide to bring him back into the fold?
Why Did the CW Hire Thom Brennaman?
Brennaman is no stranger to the broadcasting world. Before his controversial exit, he had established himself as a seasoned announcer, covering teams across various sports, including the Cubs, Diamondbacks, and Reds in Major League Baseball, as well as national broadcasts for the NFL and college football. His impressive resume includes calling a college football championship and being on the mic for Derek Jeter’s iconic flip to home plate.
The CW was aware of Brennaman’s past and reached out to various figures in the broadcasting industry for their opinions. “It became clear that he has taken full responsibility for his actions,” said Dennis Miller, the CW president. Bob Costas, a respected broadcaster, also weighed in, stating that while Brennaman made a serious misstep, the consequences he faced were disproportionate, especially considering his prior good reputation and efforts to make amends.
In addition to his extensive experience, Brennaman comes from a broadcasting family. His father, Marty Brennaman, is a Hall of Fame radio broadcaster, which adds to the legacy he carries into his new role.
The Infamous Hot Mic Incident
Brennaman’s fall from grace began on August 19, 2020, during a Reds vs. Royals game when he was caught on a hot mic saying, “one of the f– capitals of the world.” He believed his microphone was off, but it was very much live, and the comment quickly went viral. This moment not only ended his tenure with the Reds but also left a lasting mark on his career.
During the fifth inning of that game, Brennaman addressed the incident, acknowledging the gravity of his words. “I
