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Al Michaels' net worth is a testament to his iconic status in sports broadcasting, with a career that has spanned over five decades, gaining him immense recognition and financial success. Starting in 1964 and known for memorable broadcast moments, Michaels has worked with major networks like ABC and NBC and currently calls Thursday Night Football for Amazon under a lucrative contract. His journey from early roles in television to becoming a household name in sports commentary showcases his enduring impact and hard-earned wealth.
| Year | Network | Annual Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| 1974 - 2005 | ABC | Not publicly disclosed |
| 2006 - 2021 | NBC | $8 million |
| 2022 - 2024 | Amazon | $11 million |
Few voices in sports broadcasting are as instantly recognizable as Al Michaels. With a career that stretches back to the 1960s, Michaels has called some of the most unforgettable moments in sports history and built a net worth estimated at $40 million. But how did he get here? Let’s dive into the career milestones, major contracts, and earnings that have solidified his financial success.
Michaels’ journey into sports broadcasting wasn’t an instant leap into the big leagues. Before becoming a household name, he started in television as a talent coordinator for The Dating Game in 1964. However, his passion for sports led him to a public relations role with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1968. His first break in broadcasting came when he became the play-by-play announcer for the Hawaii Islanders baseball team, refining the skills that would later make him an icon.
His career gained momentum in the early 1970s when he moved on to call games for the Cincinnati Reds and later the San Francisco Giants. By 1974, ABC Sports saw his potential and brought him on board, marking the beginning of a remarkable career with the network.
During Michaels' 30-plus years at ABC, he became one of the most trusted voices in sports commentary. Perhaps his most famous moment came during the 1980 Winter Olympics when, as the U.S. hockey team defeated the heavily favored Soviet Union, he delivered the iconic line: “Do you believe in miracles?!” That call cemented his place in sports history.
Beyond hockey, Michaels became synonymous with Monday Night Football, holding the lead play-by-play role from 1986 to 2005. He also covered major sporting events, including World Series games and NBA Finals. His ability to deliver gripping commentary, whether on a historic win or a World Series interrupted by a San Francisco earthquake, made him a mainstay in American homes.
After more than three decades with ABC, Michaels made a surprising transition to NBC in 2006—a move that was part of a unique deal involving a character trade. NBC traded rights to a minor Olympic rights deal and the quirky cartoon character Oswald the Lucky Rabbit (which Disney owned) in exchange for releasing Michaels from his ABC contract.
At NBC, Michaels continued to dominate sports broadcasting, joining Sunday Night Football and calling multiple Super Bowls. His tenure at NBC also included hosting duties during the Olympic Games. His contract reportedly earned him $8 million annually, further adding to his growing fortune.
In 2022, Michaels made another major career shift, signing with Amazon Prime Video to lead their Thursday Night Football broadcasts. His three-year, $33 million deal elevated his earnings to approximately $1 million per game. Additionally, he maintained an "emeritus" role at NBC, allowing him to call select games while focusing on his Amazon duties.
Amazon’s foray into sports broadcasting proved lucrative for Michaels, with reports suggesting his total deal could reach $45 to $48 million when factoring in potential extensions and additional appearances. Despite questions about his future beyond 2023, Michaels has remained passionate about broadcasting, keeping fans engaged with his signature delivery.
While much of Michaels’ wealth comes from broadcasting salaries, he has made strategic business moves outside of the booth. He co-owns Asylum Entertainment with his son, Steven Michaels, which has produced notable films including American Gangster and The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe. The company was sold to Legendary Entertainment for $100 million before being repurchased by the Michaels family in 2018.
Although his endorsement portfolio isn’t as extensive as some athletes or celebrities, Michaels has appeared in high-profile Super Bowl commercials for brands like Applebee’s and Walmart, adding to his earnings.
With five Emmy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and induction into the Television Academy Hall of Fame, Michaels has etched his name in broadcasting history. He received the Sports Emmy Award for lifetime achievement in 2011, recognizing his contributions to the field.
Despite his long career, his confidence in his broadcasting style remains unshaken. While his Amazon commentary has received mixed reviews, Michaels stands by his seasoned approach, showcasing the poise that has kept him at the top for so long.
What’s your favorite Al Michaels moment? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about the unforgettable calls that made him a legend!
What is Al Michaels' annual income? The figure is remarkably substantial. Many might be surprised to learn that Al Michaels currently earns between $14 million and $16 million each year. This lucrative salary comes from his contract with Amazon, which spans three years. Consequently, Al Michaels stands to earn between $45 million and $48 million over the course of this deal.
As of 2025, Cris Collinsworth boasts a net worth of $30 million. Known for his time as a wide receiver with the Cincinnati Bengals, Collinsworth enjoyed a successful yet brief NFL career. After retiring from professional football in the 1980s, he transitioned into a prominent role as a sports commentator, a career he has excelled in for over 40 years.
Linda Anne Stamaton is the wife of Al Michaels.
Al Michaels did indeed have a history with football. He attended Alexander Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, where he was classmates with notable figures such as Joel Siegel, Michele Lee, and Michelle Phillips. There, he was actively involved in both football and baseball. After graduating in 1962, Michaels went on to attend Arizona State University, majoring in radio and television with a minor in journalism.
Al Michaels' legendary career in sports broadcasting is not only an inspiring story of resilience and success but also a reflection of the evolving landscape of sports media. As you continue to explore the fascinating world of influential broadcasters like Michaels, we’d love to connect with you and share more insights and stories. Whether you're passionate about sports, broadcasting, or just enjoy captivating tales of professional journeys, I invite you to join us on our social media platforms. Dive deeper into our content by following us on Pinterest, check out behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram, engage with us in lively discussions on X (formerly Twitter), and be part of our community on Facebook. We can’t wait to see you there and share in the excitement of discovering more about those who have shaped sports broadcasting as we know it today!
