NBC Hires Rex Reed to Replace John Madden

rex-reedNEW YORK – NBC Sports Chairman Dick Ebersol announced yesterday that he has hired New York Observer critic and bon vivant Rex Reed to replace John Madden as color analyst on the network’s Sunday night football telecasts.

“I believe Mr. Reed’s sophistication and urbanity will be the perfect compliment to the rock-solid, all-American homespun appeal of play by play man Al Michaels.” 

Although he was named as Madden’s replacement less than twenty-four hours ago, Ebersol said Reed has already sent him an extensive list of ideas to improve the broadcast.

“Rex feels we need a new color scheme in the booth, so he’s sending his decorator over this morning. He also told me he loathes Al’s haircut, and his comments about Al’s tailor reached new heights in bitchiness. I told him I’m taking all of his suggestions into consideration.”

 Reached at his Park Avenue townhouse, Reed sounded excited about this new career opportunity.

“I absolutely adore the game of football, with the sweating and the grunting and the tight pants. Believe me honey, this is my kind of national pasttime!” 

He then excused himself.

“Margaret Whiting’s doing a Johnny Mercer tribute at The Ballroom tonight, and I’ve got a table down front.”

Apr 17