Ep 3. A Legend In The Booth with Hank Azaria

In season 1 episode 3 of Gamechangers, titled "A Legend In The Booth with Hank Azaria," viewers are given an inside look into the world of sports broadcasting and the impact of one of the most recognizable voices in the industry, Hank Azaria. Known for his work on The Simpsons, Azaria has also made a name for himself in the sports world as a play-by-play announcer.

The episode begins with Azaria recounting his early career days, and how he ended up in the world of sports broadcasting. Viewers get to see footage of Azaria delivering his first play-by-play commentary during a Dodgers game, which according to him, was terrible.

The episode then dives into the specifics of Azaria's job, with interviews with colleagues and football players alike. Azaria talks about his preparation process and how he spends hours researching both teams in order to deliver an accurate and exciting commentary. In addition, Azaria explains how he customizes his voice and tone based on the game situation, reading the energy of the game and adjusting accordingly.

The episode pays homage to some of Azaria's most memorable calls, including the thrilling 2012 Ravens vs. Broncos playoff game, which is now known as the Mile High Miracle game. Azaria's commentary during that game is recognized as one of the best in sports history, and viewers get to see how he delivered those iconic lines in the moment.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the emphasis on the role of play-by-play announcers in shaping how fans experience the game. Azaria discusses how he tries to paint a vivid picture for listeners, providing context and backstory for players during the game to help fans understand the bigger picture. This approach not only enhances the enjoyment of the game but also brings fans closer to the players and teams they love.

Throughout the episode, Azaria's passion for his job and the sports industry is evident, with interviews with colleagues and players alike discussing his impact on the industry. However, Azaria is humble about his contributions, and is quick to credit his fellow broadcasters and the teams he covers.

Overall, "A Legend In The Booth with Hank Azaria" is a fascinating look into the world of sports broadcasting and how one man's voice can shape the fan experience. For fans of both sports and entertainment, this episode is a must-watch.