Steve McKeown, Long-Time TD for NBC, CBS, Dies at 80

Steve McKeown, longtime technical manager for NBC Sports and CBS Sports and better known as “Stevie Mac,” died on Oct. 22 at the age of 80. He had spent 25 years at NBC Sports and 21 years at CBS Sports. He is survived by his wife, Laurie (whom he was married to for 44 years); children Mark, Dakota, and Makehla; and five grandchildren.

Steve McKeown, who died Oct. 22, was passionate about mentoring newcomers to the industry.

McKeown attended NYU in New York City and started his television career in the mailroom at NBC. He later was a radio announcer at KOGO San Diego and moved up to camera operator at NBC. He then became videotape editor at NBC Burbank, where he was awarded his first Emmy, for Elvis Live From Hawaii.

He earned many other Emmys during his time at NBC, all of them as technical manager for NBC Sports. He worked with many of the people who have grown to know and love him, and mentoring young men and women who were starting in the business was his passion.

After 25 years at NBC Sports, McKeown moved over to CBS Sports, where he served as technical manager on numerous NCAA Final Fours, major golf events, Super Bowls, and World Series. He would spend 21 years at CBS Sports before retiring to Phoenix.

Ken Aagaard, EVP, innovation and new technology, CBS Sports, says, “He was as good a tech manager as I have ever worked with, and he always handled himself best when under pressure while working high-profile events. At CBS, he became our specialist for our studio shows when we went on the road. When you were on a big show, you always felt better knowing that Stevie Mac had your back. He would never let you down and became as good a friend as you could have ever had.”

Adds Bob Matina,, director, The NFL Today, CBS Sports, “Usually, when Stevie Mac and I were together, there was a big event involved: a Final Four, an AFC Championship, a Super Bowl, a golf major. The bigger the challenge, the more determined he became. Stevie Mac would quip, ‘Boss, whatever you need.’ Yet it was Stevie who was always in charge, exceeding expectations. He was the ultimate professional and respected by all. But it was his incredible warmth and contagious, quick smile that are indelible.”

Says Susan Stone, currently SVP, operations and engineering, MLB Network, who worked with McKeown at CBS Sports, “Stevie Mac will be remembered by all for his warmth, humanity, and his incredible smile that immediately let you know you were a cherished and valued colleague and friend.”

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