Lee Corso, the iconic face of ESPN's "College GameDay," has announced his retirement from the beloved show after an incredible career that spanned nearly four decades. Corso, who will turn 90 on Aug. 7, first joined the show in 1987 and quickly became known for his entertaining headgear picks and signature phrase, "Not so fast, my friend."
Over the years, Corso's headgear selections have become a staple of the show, with fans eagerly awaiting his predictions each week. From donning helmets and mascot heads to transforming into various characters like the Notre Dame leprechaun and even interacting with live animals on set, Corso's creativity and sense of fun have endeared him to audiences across the country.
One of the most notable aspects of Corso's time on "College GameDay" has been his uncanny ability to entertain while also maintaining a respectable record in his headgear predictions. With over 400 games picked and a success rate of around 66.6%, Corso's expertise and enthusiasm for the game have left a lasting impact on college football fans everywhere.
Despite experiencing health challenges, including a stroke in 2009 that temporarily affected his speech, Corso's determination and love for the show never wavered. His resilience and dedication to his craft have earned him admiration from colleagues and fans alike, making his retirement announcement bittersweet for many.
As ESPN prepares to bid farewell to a broadcasting legend, the network has expressed gratitude for Corso's invaluable contributions to the show. His final appearance on "College GameDay" is scheduled for Aug. 30, with special programming planned to celebrate his illustrious career leading up to the event.
Through his colorful personality, infectious energy, and vast football knowledge, Lee Corso has left an indelible mark on the world of college football broadcasting. His legacy as a coach, entertainer, and beloved figure will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans and colleagues long after his final headgear pick.