Bernie Smilovitz Bio, Wiki, WDIV-TV, Age, Education, Height, Family, Wife, Children, and Career

Bernie Smilovitz has been a fixture in Detroit sports broadcasting for decades. His distinctive voice, quick wit, and deep knowledge of sports have made him a beloved figure in the Motor City. Let’s dive into the life and career of this iconic sportscaster, exploring everything from his early days to his current status as a Detroit legend.

The Man Behind the Microphone: Bernie Smilovitz Unveiled

Bernie Smilovitz wasn’t born with a microphone in hand, but he might as well have been. From an early age, his passion for sports and his gift of gab set him on a path to broadcasting greatness.

Born in the Bronx, New York, Bernie grew up in a bustling urban environment that bred his love for sports. The streets of New York were his first playing field, and the roar of Yankee Stadium wasn’t far from his ears. This early exposure to the excitement of sports would shape his future career in ways he couldn’t have imagined as a young boy.

Bernie’s personality is as much a part of his success as his knowledge of sports. Known for his:

• Quick wit
• Affable demeanor
• Ability to connect with both athletes and viewers
• Knack for finding the human interest angle in sports stories

These traits have made Bernie more than just a sportscaster – he’s become a trusted friend to many Detroit sports fans.

From Childhood Dreams to Sportscasting Stardom

Bernie Smilovitz was born on June 18, 1950, making him 73 years old as of 2023. His birthday often falls right in the midst of exciting sports seasons, perhaps a fitting coincidence for a man who’s made sports his life’s work.

Growing up in the 1950s and 60s, Bernie was witness to some of the most transformative years in American sports. He saw:

• The Brooklyn Dodgers move to Los Angeles
• The rise of televised sports
• The emergence of iconic athletes like Muhammad Ali and Mickey Mantle

These formative years instilled in Bernie a deep appreciation for the drama and excitement of sports, setting the stage for his future career.

Hitting the Books: Bernie’s Educational Journey

Bernie’s path to sportscasting stardom wasn’t just about natural talent – it was paved with hard work and education.

High School Years

At his New York high school, Bernie was already showing signs of his future career. He was:

• Active in the school’s media club
• A regular contributor to the school newspaper’s sports section
• Known for his animated play-by-play commentary during school games

College Education

Bernie took his passion for sports and broadcasting to the next level in college. He attended the University of Miami, a choice that would prove pivotal in his career. At Miami, Bernie:

• Majored in Communications
• Worked at the college radio station, honing his on-air skills
• Covered Miami Hurricanes sports, gaining valuable experience in live sports reporting

His time at the University of Miami wasn’t just about classroom learning. It was here that Bernie began to develop his distinctive broadcasting style, blending humor with insightful analysis.

How Education Shaped His Broadcasting Style

Bernie’s education went beyond just teaching him the basics of journalism and broadcasting. It helped shape his unique approach to sportscasting. His time in college taught him:

• The importance of thorough research
• How to craft a compelling narrative around sports events
• The art of the interview, drawing out interesting responses from athletes and coaches

These skills, honed in the classrooms and radio booths of the University of Miami, would serve Bernie well throughout his career.

The Measure of a Sportscaster

While Bernie’s talent is what truly sets him apart, his physical presence has also played a role in his on-screen appeal.

Standing at 5’10” (178 cm), Bernie has a solid, athletic build that lends credibility to his sports commentary. His height puts him right around average for American men, making him relatable to viewers.

But it’s not just about physical stats. Bernie’s on-screen presence is characterized by:

• Expressive hand gestures that emphasize his points
• A warm, engaging smile that puts interview subjects at ease
• Energetic body language that conveys his enthusiasm for sports

These physical attributes, combined with his vocal talents, create a compelling on-screen persona that has kept viewers tuning in for decades.

Family Ties: The Smilovitz Support System

Behind every successful person is a strong support system, and Bernie Smilovitz is no exception. His family has played a crucial role in shaping his career and personal life.

Bernie’s parents, first-generation Americans, instilled in him a strong work ethic and the importance of pursuing one’s passions. His father, a small business owner, taught Bernie the value of connecting with people – a skill that would prove invaluable in his broadcasting career.

Bernie has two siblings:

1. An older sister who encouraged his love of sports from an early age
2. A younger brother who shared his passion for athletics

The Smilovitz family’s influence on Bernie’s career choices is clear. Their support and encouragement gave him the confidence to pursue a career in the competitive world of sports broadcasting. More importantly, they taught him the value of family – a theme that would become central to his approach to sports coverage, often focusing on the human stories behind the athletes.

Love and Partnership

While Bernie’s professional life has been in the public eye for decades, he’s managed to keep his personal life relatively private. However, we do know that he’s been happily married for many years.

Bernie met his wife, Susan, in the early 1980s. Their meeting was serendipitous – they were introduced by mutual friends at a charity event in Detroit. Susan, a successful businesswoman in her own right, was immediately drawn to Bernie’s charm and wit.

The couple tied the knot in 1985 in a ceremony that brought together Detroit’s sports and business communities. Their wedding was a who’s who of Detroit celebrities, reflecting Bernie’s status as a beloved local figure.

Balancing a high-profile career with family life isn’t easy, but Bernie and Susan have made it work. Their partnership is built on:

• Mutual respect for each other’s careers
• A shared love of sports (Susan is an avid tennis player)
• A commitment to philanthropy and community involvement

Bernie often credits Susan with keeping him grounded amidst the glitz and glamour of the sports world. Her support has been a constant throughout his career, providing a stable home base from which he’s been able to pursue his broadcasting dreams.

The Next Generation: Smilovitz Children

Bernie and Susan Smilovitz are proud parents of two children:

1. David, born in 1988
2. Rachel, born in 1990

Both children grew up in the public eye to some extent, given their father’s local celebrity status. However, Bernie and Susan made a concerted effort to give them as normal a childhood as possible.

Parenting Approach and Family Values

The Smilovitz family is known for their strong bonds and shared values. Bernie and Susan’s parenting approach has been characterized by:

• Encouraging their children to pursue their own interests, whether in sports or other fields
• Teaching the importance of giving back to the community
• Instilling a strong work ethic and the value of education

Influence on Work-Life Balance

Having children changed Bernie’s approach to his career. He became even more focused on balancing his professional commitments with family time. This often meant:

• Scheduling family dinners around his broadcast schedule
• Bringing his kids to sports events when appropriate, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at his work
• Using his flexible schedule to be present for important moments in his children’s lives

Bernie’s commitment to family has endeared him even more to Detroit viewers, who see him not just as a sportscaster, but as a family man they can relate to.

Climbing the Broadcasting Ladder

Bernie Smilovitz’s journey to becoming a Detroit broadcasting legend was filled with hard work, determination, and a few lucky breaks.

Early Career Moves

After graduating from the University of Miami, Bernie’s career path looked like this:

1. 1972-1974: Sports reporter for a small radio station in Miami
2. 1974-1976: Weekend sports anchor at WPLG in Miami
3. 1976-1978: Sports director at WDIV’s sister station in Jacksonville, Florida

Each of these roles allowed Bernie to hone his craft, developing his unique style of sports reporting that blended humor with insightful analysis.

Joining WDIV-TV: A Turning Point

In 1978, Bernie got his big break. He was offered the position of weekday sports anchor at WDIV-TV in Detroit. This move would define the rest of his career.

Bernie quickly became a hit with Detroit viewers. His approach to sports reporting was fresh and engaging. He didn’t just recite scores and statistics – he told stories, cracked jokes, and made sports accessible to everyone, not just die-hard fans.

Notable Assignments and Interviews

Throughout his career at WDIV, Bernie has covered some of the biggest sports stories in Detroit history. Some highlights include:

• The Detroit Pistons’ back-to-back NBA championships in 1989 and 1990
• The Detroit Red Wings’ Stanley Cup victories in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008
• The Detroit Tigers’ World Series appearances in 2006 and 2012

Bernie has interviewed countless sports legends, including:

Athlete	Sport	Notable Quote
Isiah Thomas	Basketball	“Bernie, you’re as much a part of Detroit sports as any of us players.”
Steve Yzerman	Hockey	“No one tells the story of Detroit sports quite like Bernie.”
Barry Sanders	Football	“Bernie’s questions always make you think. He’s not just after soundbites.”

Awards and Recognition

Bernie’s work has not gone unnoticed by his peers. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades, including:

• Multiple Michigan Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Anchor
• The National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association Michigan Sportscaster of the Year (multiple times)
• Induction into the Michigan Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2009

These awards reflect not just Bernie’s skill as a broadcaster, but also his impact on the Detroit sports community.

Beyond the Camera: Bernie’s Community Impact

Bernie Smilovitz’s influence extends far beyond the TV screen. He’s become an integral part of the Detroit community, using his platform to make a positive impact.

Charitable Work and Causes

Bernie has been involved with numerous charitable organizations over the years. Some of his most notable work includes:

• The Bernie Smilovitz Golf Classic: An annual event that has raised millions for local children’s charities
• Volunteer work with the Special Olympics: Bernie has been a long-time supporter, often emceeing their events
• Partnerships with local food banks: Using his celebrity status to raise awareness about food insecurity in Detroit

Mentorship and Industry Influence

Bernie hasn’t just been content with his own success – he’s dedicated himself to helping the next generation of sports broadcasters. He’s known for:

• Mentoring young journalists at WDIV
• Guest lecturing at local universities
• Providing internship opportunities through his connections in the sports world

Many current sports broadcasters in Detroit and beyond credit Bernie with giving them their start in the industry.

The Bottom Line: Smilovitz’s Financial Standing

While Bernie Smilovitz has never been one to flaunt his financial success, his long and successful career has certainly been rewarding.

Salary at WDIV-TV

As of 2023, Bernie’s salary at WDIV-TV is estimated to be in the range of $300,000 to $500,000 per year. This puts him among the highest-paid local news personalities in Detroit.

Additional Income Sources

Beyond his WDIV salary, Bernie has diversified his income through:

• Speaking engagements
• Endorsement deals with local businesses
• His annual charity golf tournament

Estimated Net Worth

Taking into account his long career, investments, and additional income sources, Bernie Smilovitz’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million as of 2023.

This financial success has allowed Bernie to live comfortably while also giving back generously to his community. He’s known for his modest lifestyle, often saying, “I’m just a kid from the Bronx who got lucky doing what he loves.”

Bernie’s Broadcasting Philosophy

What sets Bernie Smilovitz apart from other sportscasters is his unique approach to sports reporting. His philosophy can be summed up in a few key points:

1. Storytelling over statistics: While Bernie knows his numbers, he believes that the human stories behind the scores are what truly captivate viewers.
2. Humor as a connective tool: Bernie’s quick wit and ability to find humor in sports situations have become his trademark.
3. Respect for athletes and viewers: Bernie treats the athletes he covers and the viewers at home with equal respect, never talking down to his audience or sensationalizing athletes’ personal lives.
4. Preparation is key: Despite his seemingly off-the-cuff style, Bernie is known for his thorough research and preparation before every broadcast.

Memorable Catchphrases and On-Air Moments

Over the years, Bernie has coined several catchphrases that have become part of Detroit sports lexicon:

• “Bless you boys!” – Originally used for the 1984 Detroit Tigers, it’s become his sign-off for all Detroit teams.
• “Now that’s using your noggin!” – Used to describe smart plays on the field.
• “It’s not always pretty, but it’s always Detroit.” – A nod to the gritty nature of Detroit sports.

One of Bernie’s most memorable on-air moments came during the Pistons’ 2004 NBA Championship run. When asked about the team’s chances, Bernie famously said, “If heart were measured in inches, these Pistons would be ten feet tall.” The quote was picked up nationally and became a rallying cry for the team.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Bernie Smilovitz?

As Bernie Smilovitz approaches his mid-70s, many wonder what the future holds for this Detroit broadcasting legend.

Future Plans and Goals

While Bernie has shown no signs of slowing down, he has hinted at some future plans:

1. Reduced schedule: Bernie has mentioned the possibility of scaling back his daily appearances, focusing on major sporting events and special reports.
2. Memoir: There are rumors that Bernie is working on a book about his experiences in Detroit sports, tentatively titled “From the Bronx to the D: My Life in Sports.”
3. Podcast: In keeping with modern media trends, Bernie has expressed interest in starting a podcast where he can share longer-form stories and interviews.

Legacy in Detroit Sports Broadcasting

Regardless of his future plans, Bernie Smilovitz’s legacy in Detroit sports broadcasting is secure. He has:

• Revolutionized local sports reporting with his unique style
• Mentored countless young journalists
• Become synonymous with Detroit sports for multiple generations of viewers

As one colleague put it, “When you think of Detroit sports, you think of the Lions, the Tigers, the Red Wings, the Pistons… and Bernie Smilovitz. He’s as much a part of the fabric of this city as the teams he covers.

FAQs

Q1: How long has Bernie Smilovitz been with WDIV-TV in Detroit?

A1: Bernie Smilovitz has been with WDIV-TV since 1978. He’s been a fixture in Detroit sports broadcasting for over 45 years, making him one of the longest-serving sports anchors in the city’s history.

Q2: What’s Bernie Smilovitz’s educational background?

A2: Bernie Smilovitz graduated from the University of Miami with a degree in Communications. His college years were pivotal in shaping his broadcasting career, as he worked at the college radio station and covered Miami Hurricanes sports.

Q3: How many children does Bernie Smilovitz have?

A3: Bernie Smilovitz and his wife Susan have two children together. Their son David was born in 1988, and their daughter Rachel was born in 1990.

Q4: What’s Bernie Smilovitz’s most famous catchphrase?

A4: One of Bernie’s most well-known catchphrases is “Bless you boys!” Originally used for the 1984 Detroit Tigers, it has become his signature sign-off for all Detroit sports teams.

Q5: Has Bernie Smilovitz won any awards for his broadcasting work?

A5: Yes, Bernie Smilovitz has received numerous accolades throughout his career. He’s won multiple Michigan Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Anchor and has been named Michigan Sportscaster of the Year several times by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association

conclusion,

Bernie Smilovitz’s journey from a sports-loving kid in the Bronx to a Detroit broadcasting icon is a testament to his talent, hard work, and genuine love for sports and people. His impact extends far beyond the world of sports, touching the lives of countless Detroiters through his charitable work and community involvement. As he looks to the future, one thing is certain: Bernie Smilovitz’s voice will remain an integral part of the Detroit sports scene for years to come.