Charles Santore, Howard Cosell

Howard Cosell (1918–1995) was one of the most recognizable and controversial sports journalists. He was known for his strong personality and distinctive voice, whose nasal, thick, New York accent had not been heard on network television before his arrival. Santore portrays him in profile, mouth open as if he is speaking.

Cosell was a commentator on ABC’s Monday Night Football from its beginning in 1970 and helped attract a huge audience. He was particularly renowned as an announcer for boxing matches and his interviews and camaraderie with Muhammad Ali. He was also a staunch supporter of Ali when the heavyweight champion lost his title in 1967 for refusing to be inducted into the Army during the Vietnam War.