NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 18, 2026Miami-Dade
ESPN co-founder Bill Rasmussen dies at 93
Bill Rasmussen, the visionary who launched the world's first 24-hour all-sports cable network, has died at age 93 from complications related to Parkinson’s disease. Rasmussen co-founded ESPN in 1979 with his son Scott, revolutionizing sports broadcasting before being forced out by majority owner Getty Oil just one year later.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
Rasmussen's creation of ESPN fundamentally altered the landscape of American sports consumption, leading to the expansion of televised college and professional sports coverage that continues to influence media rights and broadcast schedules today.
Key Facts
Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.
Who's Mentioned
organizationNCAA“Secured early rights deal with ESPN.”personChris Berman“Joined ESPN shortly after its 1979 launch.”personBob Ley“Commented on the founding of the network.”organizationGetty Oil“Forced the Rasmussens out of ESPN in 1980.”personBill Rasmussen“Subject of the obituary; died at 93.”personJimmy Pitaro“Provided a statement regarding Rasmussen's legacy.”organizationTexaco“Acquired Getty Oil and sold ESPN interest to ABC.”organizationESPN“The sports cable network founded by Rasmussen.”personGeorge Grande“Hosted the first SportsCenter broadcast.”personScott Rasmussen“Son of Bill Rasmussen and co-creator of the ESPN concept.”organizationABC“Acquired ESPN interest from Texaco in 1984.”