ESPN+ to Air “Simpsons” Version of Bengals-Cowboys on MNF
In an exciting announcement that has fans of both football and animation buzzing, ESPN is set to air a special “Simpsons”-themed alternate presentation of the Monday Night Football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Dallas Cowboys on December 9. This unique telecast will be available on ESPN+ and Disney+, marking the second installment in ESPN’s “Funday Football” series. The series debuted last year with a whimsical “Toy Story”-themed coverage of a Falcons-Jaguars game played in London, showcasing ESPN’s innovative approach to sports broadcasting.
The “Simpsons” presentation promises to be a delightful twist on the traditional football viewing experience. Viewers can expect to see the players transformed into animated characters, while beloved characters from the long-running show will take on new roles. Bart Simpson, voiced by Nancy Cartwright, will step into the role of head coach for the Bengals, while Homer Simpson, voiced by Dan Castellaneta, will lead the Cowboys. Marge (Julie Kavner) and Lisa (Yeardley Smith) will add to the fun by interviewing players throughout the game. This creative collaboration is made possible by Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox assets in 2018, which included the rights to “The Simpsons,” a show that has been a staple of American television since its debut in 1989.
Drew Carter will take on the play-by-play duties for this animated spectacle, having previously lent his voice to the “Toy Story” telecast. He will be joined by analysts Mina Kimes and Dan Orlovsky, who will provide insights and commentary throughout the game. This innovative approach to sports broadcasting is not exclusive to ESPN; other networks have also experimented with cartoon-themed presentations, such as Paramount’s “SpongeBob SquarePants” alternate presentation of the Super Bowl earlier this year.
NCAA Women’s Basketball Title Game Staying in Midday Window
In another significant announcement from ESPN, the NCAA women’s basketball national championship game will remain in its traditional 3 PM ET timeslot on ABC for the upcoming season. This decision comes after last year’s title game drew an impressive average of nearly 19 million viewers, sparking discussions about potentially moving the game to a later primetime slot. However, ABC is known for its reluctance to disrupt its Sunday evening programming, which includes popular shows and the highly-rated “World News Tonight.”
The title game has a history of airing in various time slots, having been broadcast in primetime on ESPN from 2016 to 2022 and last appearing in primetime in 2015. The decision to keep the game in its midday window reflects a commitment to maintaining a consistent viewing experience for fans. Additionally, the national semifinals will continue to air on ESPN on Friday nights, ensuring that fans have ample opportunity to engage with the tournament.
Longtime Browns Voice Jim Donovan Passes Away
In a somber turn of events, the sports community mourns the loss of Jim Donovan, the beloved play-by-play voice of the Cleveland Browns and WKYC-NBC sports director. Donovan passed away on Saturday after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 68. His voice became synonymous with Browns football, having been the team’s announcer since their return to the NFL in 1999.
Donovan’s journey was marked by resilience; he was first diagnosed with leukemia just a year after he began calling Browns games. He underwent a bone marrow transplant in 2011 and continued to fight through his health challenges. Although he took a leave of absence prior to the last season, he made a triumphant return for the playoffs before ultimately retiring during the offseason. His impact on the team and the community will be remembered fondly, as he leaves behind a legacy of passion and dedication to sports broadcasting.