Al Michaels’ voice has become synonymous with high-stakes, prime-time football during a broadcast career that’s spanned almost 60 years. His mantle is predictably replete with accolades, and his voice acts as accompaniment for many of the most memorable NFL plays and games of all time.
In the present day, Michaels is perhaps best known for his work calling Thursday Night Football alongside Kirk Herbstreit. But the 78-year-old has drawn some criticism for his recent work, particularly regarding a perceived lack of enthusiasm. That’s led to some speculation that his legendary career might be nearing an end.
Michaels recently responded to both the criticism and the speculation during an interview with the New York Post.
Al Michaels Weighs In on His Broadcasting Future
In speaking with the Post’s Andrew Marchand, Michaels acknowledged there was some truth to the notion that he hasn’t quite been firing on all cylinders this year. In a candid discussion between him and the reporter, Marchand told Michaels he thought the famed broadcaster was operating at around 80 percent this year.
“Your assessment is fair,” Michaels replied.
That notwithstanding, Michaels says he has no intent on calling it a career just cause a few naysayers on social media have suggested he should. After all, his Thursday Night Football contract runs through the length of next season.
“As far as I’m concerned, I’m doing next year,” Michaels said. “There’s no question about that in my mind.”
Granted, it’s hard to fault Michaels for not wanting to bail early on a contract that pays him an “estimated $500,000 to $1 million per game.” That’s a substantial paycheck to walk away from for one night’s work.
MORE: PFN Life — Off-the-Field Content
Not that Michaels hasn’t already established a veritable fortune for himself. Over more than a half-century spent broadcasting, the legendary color man has amassed a net worth of approximately $40 million (per Celebrity Net Worth). His mantle is predictably overflowing with accolades, including eight Emmy Awards. He’s proven all he needs to and then some; he still does this cause he enjoys the work.
While Michaels’ detractors have questioned his enthusiasm of late, a fair counter would be to point to the quality of games he’s been calling. Thursday Night Football’s been roundly criticized for being an inferior product, often featuring lackluster matchups and under-rested teams.
The schedule largely bears that out. During a particularly unappealing four-game stretch, every single Thursday game was decided by double digits. While recent iterations have been closer, few would argue that contests like the one between the Buccaneers and Bills from two weeks ago were particularly well-played. And the contest this Thursday, pitting the 2-7 Chicago Bears against the 1-7 Carolina Panthers, doesn’t exactly look poised to buck the trend.
Nonetheless, one of the best voices in broadcast will be on the call once more. And, barring anything unforeseen, through the duration of at least the 2024 NFL season. Folks who’ve grown up with — or grown old alongside — Michaels should take the opportunity to enjoy the last couple dozen games he may call in what’s been a sterling career.
Just don’t tell him he’s lost his fastball.
“I don’t think I’m a lot different than I have been through the years,” Michaels said. “And if people you know want to say that, ‘Al doesn’t sound as excited.’ Hold on a second, folks. I’m doing the same game I’ve always done.”
