Geoffrey Mason

December 30, 1940 - January 25, 2026Dec 30, 1940 - Jan 25, 2026

Naples, Florida, USANaples, FL

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Television Sports Producer

Geoffrey Mason, a towering figure in sports television production, passed away on January 25, 2026, at the age of 85. Known for his extensive work with ABC Sports, ESPN, and other major networks, Mason's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on how major sporting events were broadcast to the world. He was particularly recognized for his role as the coordinating producer for ABC's coverage of the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, a broadcast that was tragically overshadowed by the hostage crisis. Mason's ability to navigate such a critical and unfolding event demonstrated his skill and leadership under immense pressure.

Born in 1940, Mason began his career in journalism before transitioning to television production. His early work at ABC Sports laid the foundation for a prolific career that included producing coverage for seven Olympic Games, six FIFA World Cups, and a Super Bowl. He was instrumental in launching and shaping the production of numerous sports broadcasts, earning him induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2010.

Mason was also known for his dedication to mentoring and supporting colleagues, often described as a "giant visionary" who preferred to lead from behind the scenes. His commitment extended beyond his professional life; he was a dedicated advocate for recovery, serving on the board of the Betty Ford Clinic for seventeen years and speaking at Betty Ford's funeral. This dual commitment to professional excellence and personal support defined his legacy.

His influence was felt across the industry, with many professionals crediting him as a pivotal mentor. Mason's work ethic, passion for storytelling, and compassionate guidance shaped the careers of countless individuals in sports broadcasting. He is survived by his wife, Chris, and his son, Geoff Jr., who also works in broadcasting. His passing marks the end of an era in sports television production.

Memorial created on January 26, 2026. Last updated on February 15, 2026.

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Dave MannJan 26

My sincere condolences to the family of Geoffrey Mason. He aided me on a project of a term paper I wrote as a junior at Arizona State University in 1973 on ABC Sports coverage of the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. I wrote Mr. Mason and asked if he could answer some questions pertaining to his role with ABC Sports in covering the Games and the tragedy that ensued. I was surprised and stunned to actually hear back from Mr. Mason with a volume of his responses on how he and ABC Sports made the decisions that needed to be made in covering them. The details were amazing! His contributions not only earned me an "A", but more than that, I was honored with the Steve Allen Award as the Outstanding Student in Mass Communications. The monetary award was named for and provided by, former Arizona State University student and actor-comedian and talk show host, Steve Allen. And in turn, it became a first job opportunity upon graduation as an intern for Steve Allen. I couldn't thank Mr. Mason enough. His contributions and guidance to not only ABC Sports but myself, in particular, will always be remembered. May He Rest in Peace for a Job and Life Well Done. Dave Mann

Dave MannJan 26

My deepest condolences to Geoffrey's family. I was a true beneficiary pf Geoffrey's kindness and unselfishness. As a junior at Arizona State University in 1973, I decided to write a term paper on ABC Sports coverage of the 1972 Olymoics in Munich, Germany. I wrote Mr. Mason and asked if he could answer some questions pertaining to his role with ABC Sports role in covering the Games and the tragedy that ensued. To my surprise, I actually heard back from Mr. Mason with a volume of responses on how he and ABC Sports made the decisions that needed to be made in covering them. His contributions made my term paper stand out and earned me an "A". More than that, it earned me the Steve Allen Award as the Most Outstanding Student in Mass Communications. The award was named and given by actor-comedian and talk show host Steve Allen, a former Arizona State University student. And in turn, it became a first job opportunity to work as an intern for Steve Allen upon my graduation. I couldn't thank Mr. Mason enough. His contributions and guidance to not only ABC Sports but myself, in particular, will always be remembered. Rest He Rest In Peace for a life well lived. Dave Mann

Dave MannJan 26

My deepest condolences to Geoffrey's family. I was a true beneficiary of Geoffrey's unselfishness. As a junior at Arizona State University in 1973, I decided to write a term paper on ABC Sports coverage of the 1972 Olympics in Munich, Germany. I wrote Mr. Mason and aksed if he could answwer some questions pertaining to his and ANC s role in covering the Games and the tragedy that took place. I was stunned and surprised by Mr. Mason's response with pages of answers to not only my questions, but his own version of the events and the decisions he and ABC Sports made in covering them. He made my term paper stand out and it not only received an "A" but garnered me the special honor of receiving the Steve Allen Award as the Outstanding Student in Communications. The award was named for the actor-talk show host and comedian, Steve Allen, who was a former student at Arizona State. I couldn't thank Mr. Mason enough. His contributions and guidance to not only ABC Sports but myself, in particular, will always be remembered. May he Rest In Peace. Dave Mann

Geoffrey Mason

Television Sports Producer

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