Past and present ESPN figures pay tribute to founder Bill Rasmussen

ESPN co-founder Bill Rasmussen, the driving force behind the 24/7 sports network that launched in 1979, has passed away at the age of 93. Friends and former colleagues have come together to pay tribute to his significant contributions to sports broadcasting. ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro lauded Rasmussen as a visionary and innovator, whose passion and hard work laid the foundation for the company's culture.

ESPN legend Chris Berman highlighted Rasmussen's boundless optimism and infectious enthusiasm, while Bob Ley recalled the founder's energy and the role he played in shaping ESPN's early days. Fellow ESPN original Bob Ley further emphasized Rasmussen's impact, describing it as the genesis for the sports culture that has become vital to the nation and the world.

Retired anchor Bob Ley also shared a personal anecdote about the car ride that brought Rasmussen and ESPN legend Scott Rasmussen together, underscoring the founder's influential role. Scott Rasmussen, son of ESPN's co-founder, reflected on their collaboration in the late 1970s and early '80s, acknowledging the profound impact Rasmussen had on his career and the lives of thousands of others.

The ESPN family mourns the loss of a remarkable individual whose vision and dedication continue to resonate throughout the sports world.