What's Happening?
Broadcasting legend Al Michaels will continue to call NFL games for Amazon Prime Video in 2026. Michaels, who has been the voice of 'Thursday Night Football' since Amazon acquired the rights in 2022, will extend
his contract beyond its original expiration at the end of the current season. He will be joined by his broadcast partner Kirk Herbstreit for the upcoming wild-card game between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears. Michaels is renowned for his iconic sports commentary, including the famous 'Do you believe in miracles?' call during the 1980 Winter Olympics. His career, which began in 1971, has been marked by numerous accolades, including the Ford C. Frick Award from the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the Pete Rozelle Radio & Television Award from the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Why It's Important?
Al Michaels' continued presence in NFL broadcasting underscores Amazon's commitment to enhancing its sports programming portfolio. As streaming services increasingly vie for live sports content, retaining a seasoned broadcaster like Michaels helps Amazon maintain a competitive edge. His experience and popularity can attract a broader audience to Amazon Prime Video, potentially increasing subscriptions and viewership. This move also reflects the broader trend of traditional sports broadcasting talent transitioning to digital platforms, highlighting the evolving landscape of sports media consumption.
