Who is Mike Francesa and what is his primary profession?

Michael Patrick Francesa, born on March 20, 1954, is an American sports-radio talk-show host. He is widely recognized for his long and influential career in sports broadcasting, particularly in the New York City market.

What was Mike Francesa's most significant early career collaboration, and when did it begin?

Mike Francesa, alongside Chris Russo, launched the highly successful sports-radio program "Mike and the Mad Dog" in 1989. This show aired on WFAN in New York City and became one of the most successful sports-talk radio programs in American history, running until 2008.

When did Mike Francesa initially retire from his solo show on WFAN, and what was the name of that show?

Mike Francesa initially retired from his solo show, "Mike's On: Francesa on the FAN," on December 15, 2017. This show had occupied the afternoon-drive slot previously held by "Mike and the Mad Dog."

Describe Mike Francesa's return to WFAN in 2018.

After a brief retirement, Mike Francesa announced his return to WFAN on April 27, 2018. He began hosting a shorter, 3.5-hour afternoon drive show, which continued through the end of 2019.

What subsequent roles did Mike Francesa take on after his initial retirement and return to WFAN?

Following his return and subsequent second retirement from the afternoon drive slot in late 2019, Francesa moved to a half-hour evening slot on WFAN. He also began producing content for the Entercom-owned Radio.com platform starting in January 2020. He later returned for a daytime Sunday slot and a weekday hour before retiring for a third time on July 24, 2020, to spend more time with his family.

What is Mike Francesa doing currently following his multiple retirements from daily radio?

Since 2022, Mike Francesa has been hosting "The Mike Francesa Podcast" with the BetRivers Network. This indicates a continued presence in the sports media landscape through a different medium.

Where was Mike Francesa born and raised, and what was his family situation during his childhood?

Mike Francesa was born and raised in Long Beach, New York. He is the second son of Michael Anthony Francesa, who left the family when Mike was eight, and Marilyn, who raised him as a single parent. He had an older brother, John, and a younger brother, Marty.

What educational institutions did Mike Francesa attend?

Mike Francesa attended Maria Regina High School in Uniondale, New York (now Kellenberg Memorial High School). He later graduated from St. John's University in 1977, having transferred there after one year at the University of South Florida. He majored in communications and athletic administration.

How did Mike Francesa begin his career in sports media?

Francesa began his career by spending six years at "College and Pro Football Newsweekly." He was then hired by CBS Sports in 1982, initially working as a researcher focused on college sports.

How did Mike Francesa transition from a researcher to an analyst at CBS Sports?

Although initially hired as a behind-the-scenes editorial assistant, CBS Sports executives were impressed by Francesa's extensive knowledge. This led to him being promoted to a studio analyst for college basketball and football, earning him the nickname "Brent Musburger's brain" from The New Yorker.

What was a notable characteristic of Mike Francesa's broadcasting style that drew criticism early in his career?

While working as a studio analyst at CBS Sports, the most frequent complaint Francesa received was about his distinct New York accent. This accent, while characteristic of his New York roots, was sometimes perceived negatively by parts of the audience.

Did Mike Francesa ever consider working for ESPN, and what was the outcome?

Yes, ESPN attempted to recruit Francesa in 1991 to serve as their studio expert for college football, college basketball, and the NFL. However, he declined their offer, choosing to remain with CBS Sports at that time.

When did Mike Francesa leave CBS Sports, and what was the context of his departure?

Mike Francesa announced his resignation from CBS Sports on April 1, 1993, just before the 1993 Final Four began. This departure marked the end of his tenure with the network.

How did Mike Francesa initially get involved with WFAN?

When WFAN launched in 1987, Francesa applied for a host position but was initially offered only a producer's job, which he rejected. Encouraged by his wife, he continued to pursue opportunities at WFAN and was eventually hired as a weekend host in August 1987, focusing on college football and basketball.

What led to the formation of the "Mike and the Mad Dog" show?

Due to his success as a weekend and fill-in host, WFAN decided to pair Mike Francesa with the younger, more vibrant Chris Russo to replace Pete Franklin in the afternoon drive-time slot. Francesa's serious, hard-hitting style was complemented by Russo's lighter, unconventional approach, creating the popular "Mike and the Mad Dog" show.

What significant award did "Mike and the Mad Dog" receive?

In 2000, "Mike and the Mad Dog" won the Marconi Award for Major Market Personality of the Year. This was a notable achievement, as they were the first sports-talk hosts to ever receive this award.

Besides "Mike and the Mad Dog," what other long-running radio show did Francesa host?

Francesa also hosted a weekly radio show called "The NFL Now," which originated from WFAN. This show ran from 1987 to 2016 and was eventually syndicated, airing on networks like MSNBC and via video webcast on NBCSports.com.

What was the catalyst for Mike Francesa's solo career on WFAN?

Chris Russo's departure from WFAN on August 14, 2008, led to the end of "Mike and the Mad Dog." Francesa subsequently signed a five-year contract with WFAN and began his new solo program, initially titled "Mike'd Up," on September 8, 2008.

How did Mike Francesa's solo show evolve in terms of name and broadcast platforms?

Francesa's solo show, initially "Mike'd Up," was renamed "Mike's On" on January 17, 2012, due to rights issues with the television program name. The show was simulcast on the YES Network from 2008 to 2014 and later broadcast nationally on Fox Sports 1 from March 2014 to September 2015.

What notable on-air incident occurred involving Mike Francesa in September 2012?

On September 10, 2012, Mike Francesa appeared to fall asleep live on air during a segment with Yankees beat reporter Sweeny Murti. He later denied falling asleep, despite widespread mockery and attention from the incident.

What was the outcome of Mike Francesa's return to WFAN in terms of ratings?

Upon his return in 2018, Francesa's show won the Fall 2018 ratings book, narrowly beating "The Michael Kay Show." He continued to perform strongly, winning the Winter 2019 ratings book as well, although the inclusion of streaming data led to disputes with Michael Kay's show.

What controversy did Mike Francesa face in April 2019 regarding Corey Ballentine?

Mike Francesa faced criticism for comments he made about New York Giants draft pick Corey Ballentine after Ballentine was wounded in a shooting. Francesa appeared to question Ballentine's character, despite the shooting being random, which drew backlash from media members and fans.

What happened with Mike Francesa's subscription-based mobile app, "Mike's On"?

Francesa launched the "Mike's On" mobile app in August 2018, charging $8.99 per month. The app, which offered a live video stream of his show and other content, was widely criticized for its price. In September 2019, WFAN's owner acquired the app's intellectual property, integrating its content into the free Radio.com platform and discontinuing the paid subscription.

What unusual on-air incident occurred during Mike Francesa's "5 Minute Morning" recording in November 2019?

During a "5 Minute Morning" recording on November 4, 2019, Mike Francesa appeared to release flatulence while on the air. The incident gained mainstream media attention, though Francesa later denied it, calling it "fake news."

What marked the first time Mike Francesa lost in the New York sports radio ratings book, and when did this occur?

In the Fall 2019 ratings book, Mike Francesa's WFAN show lost to "The Michael Kay Show" in direct head-to-head ratings. This was the first time Francesa had been outrated in the New York market since his career began in 1989.

What criticism did Chris Russo voice about Mike Francesa's return to radio?

In November 2019, Chris Russo described Mike Francesa's radio comeback as "unhealthy." Russo stated that Francesa should have remained retired and suggested that Francesa might have realized his return was a mistake towards the end of his second afternoon drive run.

When did Mike Francesa announce his second retirement from WFAN, and who replaced him?

Mike Francesa announced his second retirement from WFAN on November 5, 2019, with his final afternoon show airing on December 6, 2019. Joe Benigno and Evan Roberts, formerly of the midday show, eventually took over the afternoon-drive slot.

What was the nature of Mike Francesa's shows after his second retirement from the afternoon drive slot?

After stepping down from the afternoon drive, Francesa was slated to host a 30-minute show on WFAN from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m., with an additional hour on Radio.com. He indicated this show would be freeform, allowing him to discuss topics beyond sports, including politics.

When did Mike Francesa retire for the third time, and what was the stated reason?

Mike Francesa retired from broadcasting his daily WFAN and Radio.com show for the third time on July 24, 2020. He cited the desire to spend more time with his family as the reason for his final retirement.

In what film did Mike Francesa make an acting appearance?

Mike Francesa played a bookie in the 2019 film "Uncut Gems," which starred Adam Sandler. He also had a role playing himself in the 2003 TV movie "Undefeated."

What are the details of Mike Francesa's personal life regarding his marriages and children?

Mike Francesa was first married in 1983 to Kate, and they divorced in 1994. He married his second wife, Rosemary, on July 14, 2000. They have three children: fraternal twins Emily Grace and Jack Patrick, and Harrison James.

What were Mike Francesa's political leanings and actions around the 2016 election?

In 2016, Mike Francesa supported Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. He tweeted that the NFL had "lost its way" for allowing players to kneel during the national anthem and dismissed concerns about Trump's finances, noting his electoral success.

How did Mike Francesa's political views evolve or manifest in his later shows?

Despite supporting Trump in 2016, Francesa claimed in January 2020 that he would provide an "unbiased" moderate political perspective on his Radio.com show. However, in March 2020, he sharply criticized Trump's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What health issues has Mike Francesa experienced?

In June 2006, Francesa missed radio days due to "personal reasons" and revealed he needed to change his diet due to weight struggles and had undergone an angioplasty procedure. He also had emergency knee surgery on August 31, 2006, after shattering his kneecap during a golf game. In October 2025, he underwent emergency gallbladder surgery.

Does Mike Francesa have an involvement in horse racing?

Yes, Mike Francesa owns horses through his JEH Racing Stable. His horse High Oak won the Grade II Saratoga Special Stakes in 2021, and Casa Creed, co-owned, won the Grade I Fourstardave Handicap in 2022. The stable name JEH represents his children: Jack, Emily, and Harrison.

How has Mike Francesa been recognized in the sports radio industry?

Mike Francesa was ranked first among the "100 most important sports-talk radio hosts" by Talkers Magazine in 2012, and retained that top ranking in 2013 and 2014. He also won the Marconi Award for Major Market Personality of the Year in 2000 and again in 2012.

What is the nature of the public dispute between Mike Francesa and Phil Mushnick?

Phil Mushnick, a columnist for the New York Post, has had a long-running public battle with Mike Francesa, stemming from Mushnick's perception of Francesa's egotism, condescension, and pomposity. Mushnick once accused Francesa and Chris Russo of demanding loyalty oaths from Jews after the September 11 attacks, while Francesa has called Mushnick a "jealous old man."

What did Bob Raissman observe about Mike Francesa's broadcasting style and its effect on listeners?

Bob Raissman, a columnist for the New York Daily News, noted in 2017 that while Francesa's approach was polarizing, this very quality was what attracted a large number of listeners. This suggests that his contentious style, despite drawing criticism, was effective in engaging his audience.

What was the significance of Mike Francesa's early career at CBS Sports regarding his knowledge?

At CBS Sports, Francesa started as a researcher but impressed executives with his knowledge, leading to his promotion to studio analyst. His expertise was so recognized that The New Yorker referred to him as "Brent Musburger's brain," highlighting his deep understanding of sports.

What was the initial reception to Mike Francesa's return to WFAN in 2018?

Upon his return to WFAN in 2018, Mike Francesa immediately regained a strong audience share. He won the Fall 2018 ratings book for the afternoon drive slot, indicating that his established listener base remained loyal and tuned in.

What was Mike Francesa's trademark sign-off phrase on his final WFAN broadcast in 2017?

On his final day on WFAN, December 15, 2017, Mike Francesa concluded his broadcast by saying, "I want to thank you guys, the listeners, the audience. Because without you—we don't last a week. We don't last a month. So, what I'd like to say to you is, 'I will miss you. I thank you. And, from the bottom of my heart, I love you. Goodbye.'"

How did Mike Francesa's relationship with Fox Sports 1 conclude?

Mike Francesa's show began broadcasting nationally on Fox Sports 1 in March 2014. However, the relationship was described as tumultuous, and his contract ended on September 11, 2015. Francesa himself took primary responsibility for the failure of this broadcast arrangement.

What was the context for Mike Francesa's return to WFAN in March 2020?

Mike Francesa returned to daytime sports radio at WFAN on Sundays starting March 24, 2020, taking a temporary weekend gig. The station's decision to rehire him was partly influenced by downsizing efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What did Mike Francesa state about his political coverage on his Radio.com show in January 2020?

In January 2020, Mike Francesa stated that his political coverage on his new Radio.com show would be "played down the middle," aiming to provide an unbiased, centrist perspective. This was despite his previous support for Donald Trump in 2016.

Mike Francesa Wiki: The Mic Maestro: A Scholarly Exploration of Mike Francesa's Sports Radio Dominion

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Profile

The Voice of New York Sports

Michael Patrick Francesa, widely recognized by his professional moniker Mike Francesa, was born on March 20, 1954. He is a distinguished American sports-radio talk-show host, renowned for his significant contributions to the sports media landscape, particularly in the New York metropolitan area.

Origins and Early Life

Francesa was raised in Long Beach, New York. His formative years were marked by his mother's single parenthood after his father's departure when Francesa was eight. He attended Maria Regina High School (now Kellenberg Memorial High School) and subsequently pursued higher education at St. John's University, graduating in 1977 with a degree in Communications and Athletic Administration.

Family Life

Francesa has been married twice. His first marriage, to Kate, occurred in 1983 and concluded in divorce in 1994. He later married Rosemary (Roe) on July 14, 2000. Together, they have three children: fraternal twins Emily Grace and Jack Patrick, and Harrison James. The family resides in Manhasset, New York.

Career Trajectory

Early Broadcast Ventures

Francesa commenced his professional journey in sports media with College and Pro Football Newsweekly before joining CBS Sports in 1982 as a researcher. His profound knowledge led to his transition into a studio analyst role for college basketball and football, earning him the moniker "Brent Musburger's brain" from The New Yorker due to his analytical prowess.

The Genesis of "Mike and the Mad Dog"

Upon WFAN's inception in 1987, Francesa initially served as a weekend host. His pivotal career moment arrived in 1989 when he was paired with Chris Russo for the afternoon drive-time slot. Their show, Mike and the Mad Dog, became a cultural phenomenon in New York sports radio, running from 1989 to 2008 and earning the prestigious Marconi Award for Major Market Personality of the Year in 2000.

Solo Career and Transitions

Following Russo's departure from WFAN in 2008, Francesa embarked on a solo career with Mike'd Up, later renamed Mike's On. This show was simulcast on the YES Network and later Fox Sports 1. Despite periods of controversy and a highly publicized retirement in December 2017, Francesa has returned to radio multiple times, including stints on Radio.com and a podcast with the BetRivers Network, demonstrating his persistent presence in the media.

Signature Programs

Mike and the Mad Dog (1989-2008)

This iconic program, co-hosted with Chris Russo, defined sports talk radio for a generation. Francesa's analytical depth complemented Russo's energetic, often contrarian style, creating a dynamic that captivated listeners and dominated ratings for nearly two decades. Their success was recognized with the Marconi Award.

Mike's On: Francesa on the FAN (2008-2017, 2018-2019)

Following the dissolution of Mike and the Mad Dog, Francesa launched his solo afternoon drive show. This program continued his tradition of in-depth sports analysis, listener interaction, and often, contentious debates. It was simulcast on television networks, extending his reach beyond radio.

Digital and Podcast Era

In his post-WFAN career, Francesa has embraced digital platforms. He launched a subscription-based mobile app, "Mike's On," and later integrated content into the Radio.com platform. Currently, he hosts The Mike Francesa Podcast with the BetRivers Network, continuing to engage with audiences through contemporary media channels.

Broadcasting Style & Reception

Analytical Prowess and Persona

Francesa is recognized for his extensive knowledge of sports, particularly baseball and football, and his direct, often unvarnished, commentary. His distinctive New York accent and assertive demeanor have become hallmarks of his style. While polarizing, this approach has cultivated a dedicated listenership.

Controversies and Criticisms

Francesa's career has not been without notable incidents. He has faced criticism for instances of falling asleep on-air, making controversial remarks about athletes and events, and engaging in heated exchanges with callers and media critics, such as Phil Mushnick. These moments, while drawing criticism, also contributed to his public profile and the show's notoriety.

Ratings and Market Dominance

Throughout much of his tenure, Francesa's shows consistently ranked as the top-rated sports-talk programs in the competitive New York market. His ability to maintain high listenership, even amidst controversies and changing media landscapes, underscores his significant influence and appeal to sports enthusiasts.

Career Milestones

Foundational Years (1980s-1990s)

Francesa began his broadcast career in the early 1980s, moving from print media to CBS Sports. His tenure at CBS established his analytical reputation. The pivotal moment was the launch of Mike and the Mad Dog on WFAN in 1989, which quickly became a dominant force in sports radio.

Peak Influence (2000s-2010s)

The 2000s saw the continued success of Mike and the Mad Dog, culminating in a Marconi Award. After Russo's departure, Francesa transitioned to a solo show, maintaining strong ratings and expanding his presence to television simulcasts. He announced his initial retirement from WFAN in 2016, effective at the end of 2017.

Returns and Digital Shift (2018-Present)

Francesa's retirement proved temporary, with multiple comebacks to WFAN and other platforms. He launched a digital app and continued hosting shows, adapting to evolving media consumption habits. Since 2022, he has hosted The Mike Francesa Podcast, demonstrating his enduring relevance.

Accolades and Recognition

Marconi Awards

Francesa, both individually and with Chris Russo, has received significant industry recognition. He won the Marconi Award for Major Market Personality of the Year in 2000 and again in 2012, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to sports broadcasting.

Industry Rankings

Talkers Magazine consistently ranked Francesa among the top sports-talk radio hosts in the United States. He was listed as the number one host in 2012, 2013, and 2014, reflecting his sustained influence and popularity in the field.

Critical Reception

While widely celebrated for his expertise and engaging style, Francesa has also faced criticism regarding his on-air persona, including perceived arrogance and contentious interactions. However, critics like Bob Raissman have noted that this polarizing nature is precisely what draws listeners, contributing to his unique impact on the media landscape.

Personal Life & Views

Political Stance

Francesa has publicly expressed political opinions, notably supporting Donald Trump in the 2016 presidential election and criticizing players kneeling during the national anthem. While he stated an intention to provide unbiased political commentary on his Radio.com show, his public statements have often aligned with conservative viewpoints. He has also been critical of the Trump administration's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Equestrian Pursuits

Beyond broadcasting, Francesa is an active participant in the horse racing community. He owns horses through his JEH Racing Stable, which has seen success with horses like High Oak winning the Grade II Saratoga Special Stakes and Casa Creed winning the Grade I Fourstardave Handicap.

Health Considerations

Medical History

Francesa has publicly discussed personal health challenges. In 2006, he underwent an angioplasty procedure and knee surgery due to a shattered kneecap. He has also acknowledged managing his weight through dietary changes. In October 2025, it was reported that he underwent emergency gallbladder surgery.

Enduring Impact

The "Sports Pope"

Often referred to as the "Sports Pope," Francesa's influence extends beyond his broadcast career. His distinctive style, deep knowledge, and ability to command listener attention have shaped sports talk radio. His long-standing rivalry and eventual reconciliation with former partner Chris Russo highlight the complex dynamics of media partnerships.

Media Appearances

Francesa has also ventured into acting, playing a bookie in the 2019 film Uncut Gems and appearing as himself in the 2003 TV movie Undefeated, showcasing his versatility beyond the radio booth.

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References

Steve Zipay (1993-04-01), :Mr. Sports Tawk: Some national viewers don't like Mike Francesa's accent and attitude." "Hey, I'm a New York guy,' the sportscaster says defiantly. 'I wear it as a badge,'" Newsday

Jack Craig (1990-03-30), CBS' Francesser is plainly a success basketball, football expert defies network standards for appearance, accent, The Boston Globe.

News wire (1991-04-14), Sports People: Television; Francesa declines offer, The New York Times.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Mike Francesa Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Scholarly Context and Limitations

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, synthesizing information from publicly available sources, primarily Wikipedia. It is intended for educational and informational purposes, presented in the persona of a professional academic for an advanced student audience.

This is not professional media or sports commentary advice. The content herein is an analysis of a public figure's career and media presence. It is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding media strategy, broadcasting, or sports analysis. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific advice.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided. The content reflects a snapshot in time and may not encompass all nuances or recent developments.

The Mic Maestro

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Profile 👤

🎤 The Voice of New York Sports

📍 Origins and Early Life

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Life

Career Trajectory 📈

📺 Early Broadcast Ventures

📻 The Genesis of "Mike and the Mad Dog"

🎙️ Solo Career and Transitions

Signature Programs 📺

🤝 Mike and the Mad Dog (1989-2008)

🗣️ Mike's On: Francesa on the FAN (2008-2017, 2018-2019)

🌐 Digital and Podcast Era

Broadcasting Style & Reception 💡

🧐 Analytical Prowess and Persona

🔥 Controversies and Criticisms

📊 Ratings and Market Dominance

Career Milestones 🗓️

🚀 Foundational Years (1980s-1990s)

🌟 Peak Influence (2000s-2010s)

🔄 Returns and Digital Shift (2018-Present)

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

🏅 Marconi Awards

⭐ Industry Rankings

⚖️ Critical Reception

Personal Life & Views 🤔

🏛️ Political Stance

🏇 Equestrian Pursuits

Health Considerations ❤️

🩺 Medical History

Enduring Impact 🌟

👑 The "Sports Pope"

🎬 Media Appearances

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Scholarly Context and Limitations

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Profile

The Voice of New York Sports

Origins and Early Life

Family Life

Career Trajectory

Early Broadcast Ventures

The Genesis of "Mike and the Mad Dog"

Solo Career and Transitions

Signature Programs

Mike and the Mad Dog (1989-2008)

Mike's On: Francesa on the FAN (2008-2017, 2018-2019)

Digital and Podcast Era

Broadcasting Style & Reception

Analytical Prowess and Persona

Controversies and Criticisms

Ratings and Market Dominance

Career Milestones

Foundational Years (1980s-1990s)

Peak Influence (2000s-2010s)

Returns and Digital Shift (2018-Present)

Accolades and Recognition

Marconi Awards

Industry Rankings

Critical Reception

Personal Life & Views

Political Stance

Equestrian Pursuits

Health Considerations

Medical History

Enduring Impact

The "Sports Pope"

Media Appearances

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Scholarly Context and Limitations