Bryant Gumbel, a prominent figure in American television journalism and sportscasting, has been in the public eye for decades. Best known for co-hosting NBC's Today show for 15 years, Gumbel's career has been marked by both professional success and personal health challenges. This article examines Gumbel's approach to weight management, as well as other aspects of his health journey, drawing upon available information and reports.
Early Focus on Weight Management
In a segment on The Early Show, Gumbel introduced a comprehensive program called "Weight Off with THE EARLY SHOW," designed to help viewers improve their health and shed unwanted pounds. The show featured volunteers who were monitored by experts as they followed a weight-loss plan. During one such segment, Gumbel interviewed Greg Shipp, a 24-year-old participant who weighed 196 pounds and wanted to lose 20. Shipp acknowledged that his lifestyle changes, including decreased activity and increased consumption of junk food and late-night snacks, were contributing to his weight gain. He also admitted to enjoying "a brew or two" occasionally.
Dr. Louis Aronne of Presbyterian Hospital, who helped develop the weight-off plan, noted that Shipp was on the path to developing a weight problem, having gained 15 pounds in three years. Aronne emphasized the importance of preventing further weight gain and cited the example of another participant, Jake White, who had gained over 50 pounds and was experiencing health problems as a result.
Alcohol Consumption and Weight Loss
Gumbel raised the issue of alcohol consumption, asking if participants had to abstain completely. Aronne advised moderation, stating that while a little alcohol can be healthy, it is also high in calories, stimulates appetite, and reduces willpower. He suggested consuming alcohol with meals to mitigate its negative effects on weight management.
Portion Control: A Key to Weight Management
Aronne highlighted portion control as a crucial aspect of weight management. He pointed out the American habit of consuming large quantities of food at a low cost, particularly in buffet-style restaurants. He stressed the importance of being mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating and obesity.
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Gumbel's Own Health Challenges
In December 2009, Gumbel revealed that he had battled lung cancer. He made this announcement during an appearance on Live! With Regis and Kelly, stating, "It’s nothing to hide from." More recently, in October 2025, news outlets reported that Gumbel was hospitalized in New York City after experiencing a medical emergency.
Career Highlights
Bryant Gumbel's career spans several decades and includes numerous accomplishments. He gained widespread recognition as co-host of the Today show from 1982 to 1997. Before joining Today, Gumbel served as a sports anchor for KNBC in Los Angeles and hosted various sporting events for NBC Sports, including Major League Baseball, college basketball, and the National Football League.
After leaving Today, Gumbel moved to CBS, where he hosted Public Eye with Bryant Gumbel and co-hosted The Early Show. He was the first to announce the September 11 attacks to CBS viewers while hosting The Early Show on the morning of September 11, 2001. Since 1995, Gumbel has hosted HBO's investigative series Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel, earning critical acclaim for his work.
Personal Life
Bryant Gumbel was born in New Orleans on September 29, 1948. He is the son of Rhea Alice (née LeCesne), a city clerk, and Richard Dunbar Gumbel, a judge. He graduated from Bates College in 1970 with a degree in Russian history.
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