ESPN Founder Bill Rasmussen Dies at 93
The visionary co-founder built ESPN into a 24-hour sports network that launched in 1979 and later reached nearly 70 million homes, Sports Business Journal said.
- Bill Rasmussen, the visionary entrepreneur who launched ESPN as the world's first 24-hour sports network in 1979, died Tuesday at age 93 from Parkinson's disease complications at his Florida home.
- After being fired from the New England Whalers in 1978, Rasmussen maxed out his credit card for a $9,000 advance to secure satellite space, fueling the launch of the Entertainment and Sports Programming network.
- Initial investors doubted the 24-hour sports concept, but Rasmussen secured essential backing from Getty Oil and Anheuser-Busch. These partnerships provided capital that helped establish the network, which now employs more than 5,900 people worldwide.
- ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Rasmussen's "passion and all the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit" that built company culture. Longtime personality Chris Berman called him "the George Washington of ESPN," honoring his enduring optimism and legacy.
- Following his departure from ESPN in 1980, Rasmussen became a motivational speaker and author, encouraging budding entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas. He is survived by sons Scott and Glenn, daughter Lynn, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
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The death of Bill Rasmussen marks the farewell to one of the men behind the creation of ESPN and its first broadcast in 1979.
ESPN's Founder Bill Rasmussen Passes Away at 93
Get latest articles and stories on Sports at LatestLY. Bill Rasmussen, a former local news sports director who turned his interest in the emerging satellite television business into the launch of a global sports media giant ESPN, has passed away after a battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 93. Sports News | ESPN's Founder Bill Rasmussen Passes Away at 93.
Founder of ESPN Bill Rasmussen dies aged 93 as tributes pour in
The founder of ESPN, Bill Rasmussen, has died at the age of 93.The broadcaster confirmed his passing at his home in Florida following the effects of Parkinson's disease.Rasmussen launched ESPN in 1979, which became one of the global leaders in sports coverage.More to follow...Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
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