Rosalind Heywood

Heywood Hale Broun, born in 1918 and passing in 2001, was a multifaceted American figure known for his work as an author, sportswriter, commentator, and actor. Raised in New York City, he was the son of notable figures Ruth Hale and Heywood Broun.

Broun's early career began in journalism, writing for the New York tabloid PM and its successor. His writing career was temporarily paused for service in the United States Army during World War II. Following the war, he transitioned into a prominent role as a color commentator for CBS, covering major sporting events, including the Triple Crown and multiple Olympic Games, for two decades. He was recognized for his distinctive style and insightful commentary.

Beyond sports, Broun also had a career in acting, appearing in numerous Broadway productions and television series. He authored several books, including memoirs and collections of his writings. Additionally, Broun hosted nationally syndicated radio shows focused on authors and literature. A series dedicated to his reporting, "Woodie's World," was later produced by ESPN Classic, showcasing his distinctive journalistic contributions.

Heywood Hale Broun began his journalistic career at the New York tabloid PM in 1940 as a sportswriter. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, he returned to journalism, writing for PM and its successor, the New York Star. His career took a significant turn in 1966 when he joined CBS as a color commentator, covering a wide array of sporting events for two decades. He became a familiar voice for major competitions like the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing and provided commentary for the Saturday edition of the CBS Evening News. Broun was noted for his engaging personality and eloquent descriptions, often covering both major sporting headlines and more obscure events, from professional championships to niche competitions like the national marbles championship and lefthanded golfers championship. His reporting also extended to international events, including the Mexico City and Munich Olympics, where he covered significant world events alongside athletic competitions.

In parallel with his broadcasting career, Heywood Hale Broun also established himself as an actor. He appeared in thirteen Broadway productions between 1949 and 1967, participating in well-known plays. His acting work also included film roles, such as a self-portrayal in "The Odd Couple" (1968), and guest appearances on various television series throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 90s. Broun was also an author, publishing several books. His literary works include "A Studied Madness" (1965), "Tumultuous Merriment" (1979), and "Whose Little Boy Are You?: A Memoir of the Broun Family" (1983). He further contributed to the literary world by hosting nationally syndicated radio shows, "The Literary Guild's First Edition" and "Broun on Books," which featured interviews with numerous authors and literary figures.

The distinctive nature of Heywood Hale Broun's work as a sportswriter and commentator was recognized posthumously with the ESPN Classic series "Woodie's World." Debuting in 2002, the 30-minute program featured curated segments from his extensive reporting, often updated with contemporary context. The series ran for 36 episodes between 2002 and 2005 and has since been aired in reruns. Broun's career spanned multiple media, from print journalism and radio to television and film, showcasing a remarkable versatility. His contributions to sports commentary, in particular, are remembered for their depth and unique perspective, capturing both the grand narratives and the idiosyncratic details of the events he covered.

“Sports do not build character. They reveal it.”