SHERMAN OAKS, CALIF. (CelebrityAccess) Sportscaster Keith Jackson, 89, known as the voice of college football and his signature phrase “Whoa Nelly!” died Jan. 12 of unknown causes.
Jackson, whose career spanned more than five decades, retired after the 2006 Rose Bowl and is a member of the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. His death was announced in a statement Jan. 13 by ESPN. Jackson’s longtime employer was ABC Sports.
Disney Chairman Bob Iger said Jackons “was college football” for generations of fans.
Dedications immediately began pouring in:
THE voice of college football and one of the most iconic voices of all time, RIP Keith Jackson. Thank you for all of the incredible Saturday’s.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) January 13, 2018
An iconic call from an iconic broadcaster.
We remember Keith Jackson with one of his most memorable calls. pic.twitter.com/Hl8b1mrigy
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 13, 2018
Just heard the news that everyone’s favorite CFB broadcaster Keith Jackson passed away last night. Can close my eyes and think of so many of his special calls. Thank you Keith for all the memories and the grace in which you provided them. RIP Keith. 🙏🏼 #GOAT
— Kirk Herbstreit (@KirkHerbstreit) January 13, 2018
A “Humdinger”, “Whooooa Nelly,” and “Playin’ Under the Big Possum Hunting Moon”—irreplaceable genius and memories. #GOAT https://t.co/F4JqHCWROY
— Jack Silva (@basdjacksilva) January 13, 2018
Just heard the news of the passing of one of the best sports broadcasters ever, Keith Jackson. His call of my run in the Rose bowl is one my favorite memories #GOAT🐐 #OhNelly https://t.co/vZno7Yupmj via @youtube
— Ki-Jana Carter (@mastakey32) January 13, 2018
It was a honor to be at the “Rose Bowl” this year, which is a shrine to Keith Jackson, the voice of College Football. He called many games I played in at UGA, which is the greatest honor of all. Rest In Peace #GOAT! pic.twitter.com/lpRBvV738f
— Kevin Butler (@Therealbutthead) January 13, 2018
JUST IN: Keith Jackson, the legendary voice of college football, has died at 89 https://t.co/h94w35TTWD pic.twitter.com/gcScs5h1bZ
— New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) January 13, 2018
This was Keith Jackson’s intro to the 100th game between Ohio State and Michigan in 2003. Still gives me chills. pic.twitter.com/DmfGemnhoY
— Dustin Fox (@DustinFox37) January 13, 2018
