College football broadcasting fixture Lee Corso will retire from ESPN's "College GameDay" this August, concluding a nearly 40-year tenure with the program. Corso, who turns 90 on August 7, joined the show in 1987 and became one of its most recognizable personalities.
Known widely for his weekly headgear picks and catchphrase "not so fast, my friend," Corso's presence defined Saturdays for many college football fans. His headgear tradition began in October 1996 during a game at Ohio State. Over the years, he donned mascots ranging from the Stanford tree to the Oregon Duck, and even held a live alligator while picking Florida.
Corso said in a statement released by ESPN that his family remains "forever indebted for the opportunity to be part of ESPN and College GameDay." He cited a "treasure of many friends, fond memories and some unusual experiences" gained during his broadcast career.
ESPN announced Corso's final broadcast will air on August 30. The network plans additional programming leading up to that date to celebrate his career.
Corso continued working on the show despite suffering a stroke in 2009, which temporarily affected his speech. ESPN provided support and accommodation, particularly in recent years when travel became limited for the analyst.
His colleagues praised his impact. Kirk Herbstreit, who worked with Corso since 1996, called him "like a second father." Rece Davis, the current host, noted Corso's genuine interest in the lives of those around him, stating, "Lee has made it his life's work to bring joy to others."
Corso is scheduled to make his final GameDay appearance on Aug. 30, marking the end of a career that spanned the show's evolution from a studio program to a traveling road show. "College GameDay" has earned nine Emmys during his time on set.
Before television, Corso spent 28 years coaching football, including 15 years as a college head coach at Louisville, Indiana, and Northern Illinois. He played college football at Florida State.
ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro commented that Corso’s first headgear segment came at an Ohio State football game in 1996, linking him closely with the Ohio State Buckeyes, whom he picked using their mascot's headgear more than any other team (45 times). This has led to speculation his final show could take place in Columbus when Ohio State hosts Texas on his retirement date.
Corso's authentic enthusiasm for college football and engaging personality helped establish "College GameDay" as a Saturday morning tradition, cementing his place as a television icon.
