In a heartfelt moment on Monday Night Football, ESPN analyst Troy Aikman paid tribute to his late friend and colleague David Moulton, who recently passed away at the age of 59. Moulton, a prominent sports broadcaster in southwest Florida, succumbed to stage 4 renal cell cancer on Saturday, October 24.
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As Aikman and his partner Joe Buck called the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles on October 26, Aikman struggled to maintain his composure while recounting memories of Moulton. “He was a fighter right up until the end, and… uh, sorry,” Aikman remarked, his voice faltering. “He left a hole in a lot of people’s hearts. Just a good man.” The emotional tribute resonated with both viewers and fans of the sport, highlighting the deep connections formed within the sports media community.
Aikman and Moulton’s professional relationship began at Fox Sports, where Moulton served as a spotter during NFL games, providing invaluable support to Aikman and Buck in the broadcast booth. Moulton’s influence on the game extended beyond the technical aspects of broadcasting; he was known for his vibrant personality and ability to lighten the atmosphere during broadcasts. During the tribute segment, Aikman and Buck shared a memorable clip from a 2022 game in which Moulton dressed as Sully from the animated film Monsters, Inc., illustrating his playful spirit.
Moulton had taken a leave of absence from his podcast, “Miller and Moulton,” earlier in August, which he co-hosted alongside fellow sportscaster Mark Miller. His health challenges had become a focus of concern for those close to him, and the news of his passing has left a profound impact on the sports community. Aikman and other colleagues expressed their sorrow and condolences to Moulton’s family during this difficult time.
On his Instagram account, Aikman shared a personal tribute to Moulton, reflecting on their time together since 2018. “What started as a professional relationship became a friendship I have cherished,” he wrote, accompanying the post with a photograph of the two men. He praised Moulton’s loyalty and steadfastness, stating, “David was loyal, dependable and a warrior until the very end. He deserved better.”
Moulton’s legacy in the sports broadcasting world is marked not only by his work but by the relationships he cultivated during his career. Many have spoken out about his kindness and genuine character, emphasising how he impacted those around him. Aikman expressed his deep sense of loss, stating, “My heart breaks for his family and all who loved him. I’m grateful for the years we shared and will miss him deeply. Rest in peace big guy.”
The memories shared by Aikman and the sentiments echoed throughout the broadcast serve as a reminder of Moulton’s significant contributions to sports media. His absence will be keenly felt by both his colleagues and fans, showcasing the bonds created in the industry. The tributes to Moulton reflect not just his professional achievements, but the deep connections that define the community of sports broadcasting.
As the sports world remembers David Moulton, it celebrates not just a talented broadcaster, but a man whose kindness and infectious spirit made an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. Aikman’s emotional outpouring on such a public platform reinforces the profound impact that Moulton had on his peers, leaving a legacy that will endure in the hearts of many.