Eli Gold, Alabama broadcaster, announces cancer diagnosis

Eli Gold shared an update on his health Friday. The Alabama broadcaster, who missed the 2022 season, revealed that he has been diagnosed with cancer.

Gold, who released a statement via the Crimson Tide Sports Network, did not detail his cancer other than saying it is treatable. Gold adds that he is progressing and hopes to be back in the booth.

Statement from Eli Gold:

I want to thank everyone for their well wishes and prayers. After extensive testing, I have now been diagnosed of a treatable form of cancer. I’m already making progress and hope to get back behind the mic again soon. Roll Tide!

— Crimson Tide Sports Network (@UA_CTSN) January 6, 2023

Gold, who has been Alabama’s play-by-play broadcaster since 1988, described his 2022 absence from the booth as an orthopedic issue, not an illness. Chris Stewart stepped in for Gold on radio broadcasts for the 2022 season.

Gold, who turned 69 in December, previously expressed disappointment that he was not able to return for the Iron Bowl. In November, Gold shared that he hopes to be back for A-Day 2023, which is set for April 22.