Gary McCord reveals REAL reason behind his Masters banishment

Exploring the Controversial Banishment of Golf Commentator Gary McCord from the Masters Broadcast

Gary McCord reveals REAL reason behind his Masters banishment

Gary McCord ( Image via Golf Digest )

Gary McCord is a well-known name in the golf world, not only for his playing career but also for his colorful and entertaining commentary during golf tournaments. However, in 1994, McCord was banned from covering the Masters broadcast for CBS Sports after making some controversial comments.

In a recent episode of his video podcast with Peter Kostis, McCord delves into the details of what led to his banishment and reveals some behind-the-scenes information about the incident. McCord had joined CBS in 1986 after his PGA Tour career had come to a halt, and he had quickly become known for his irreverent and humorous commentary.

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However, he had already gotten into trouble with legendary CBS golf producer Frank Chirkinian for using the phrase “cheap seats” during an early Masters broadcast. McCord admits that he had been testing the limits of what he could get away with saying on the air.

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In 1994, McCord was covering the 17th hole during the Masters’ tournament, and he made a comment about the speed of the greens that would ultimately lead to his banishment. McCord used the phrase “bikini wax” to describe how slick the greens were.

While the CBS president, Neal Pilson, found it hilarious, two-time Masters champion Tom Watson did not. Watson sent a handwritten letter to Augusta National demanding that McCord be removed from the broadcast, and McCord was subsequently banned from the Masters’ coverage for CBS Sports.

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The fallout and its impact on Gary McCord’s career

Gary McCord
Gary McCord ( Image via Golf )

While being banned from the Masters was undoubtedly a low point in Gary McCord’s career, it turned out to be one of the best things that happened to him. He became a more in-demand commentator, and his profile rose significantly.

McCord continued to cover golf for CBS for another 25 years before being let go in 2019, along with Peter Kostis. Despite this, McCord’s career in golf broadcasting remains iconic, and he continues to be a popular figure in the sport.

In conclusion, while being banned from the Masters was a significant event in Gary McCord’s career, it ultimately helped him become an even more prominent figure in golf broadcasting. McCord’s irreverent and humorous commentary is still remembered fondly by many golf fans, and his story of being banned from the Masters is now a part of golf history.

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