Chris Fowler is one of the most recognizable mainstays at ESPN. Fowler is a foundation piece of ESPN’s college football coverage and has been for a decade. How did Fowler find his way into our homes via our TV sets?
Chris Fowler’s Career Path
In 2014, Fowler had the unenviable task of replacing legendary commentator Brent Musburger on play-by-play for Saturday Night Football on ABC. Fowler paired with Kirk Herbstreit as the premium partner in college football. Fowler and Herbstreit also worked together on ESPN College GameDay.
Fowler and Herbstreit cover some of the largest games in college football, including one of the national semifinals and the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Chris Fowler on the call tomorrow?
Need it. pic.twitter.com/weqoVcf1uN
— the saints 2031 30/30 documentary (@rp_21_) September 17, 2023
Long before Fowler took his place on the ESPN and ABC airways, he prepared for his future career growing up at State College in Pennsylvania. Fowler’s father, Knox, was a theater professor at Penn State University.
During Fowler’s teenage years, his family moved to Colorado. Fowler attended high school in Colorado Springs, Colo., and the Univesity of Colorado, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. During his time at Colorado, Fowler prepared for his future career, gaining experience in the field.
"It's been 26 years since I picked Colorado… This pick is for my friend, Chris Fowler."
Lee Corso dons the Ralphie the Buffalo head for his 400th headgear pick! pic.twitter.com/PRCixlwKJK
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 16, 2023
Fowler spent two years as the sports director at the university’s radio station. Fowler also covered high school sports for the “Rocky Mountain News.”
Fowler spent two years at an NBC affiliate as a sports reporter, production assistant, writer, and producer. Fowler used this time and experience to prepare for his next gig with ESPN.
Fowler began his career on ESPN on a show called Scholastic Sports America. Fowler worked as a college football sideline reporter for two seasons.
CHRIS. FOWLER. Is calling holds that the refs aren’t. ARE YOU KIDDING ME.
— Houston Kress (@VolRumorMill) September 17, 2023
Fowler isn’t a one-trick pony, covering a variety of sports throughout his broadcasting career. Fowler worked on college basketball on ESPN and ESPN’s Summer X Games and Winter X Games.
Fowler has worked on various horse racing events, including the Breeders’ Cup. Fowler has covered several tennis events, including Wimbledon, the US Open, the French Open, and the Australian Open.
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Fowler worked with legendary broadcaster Mike Tirico during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Fowler has hosted several ice hockey events, including the Seattle Kraken’s expansion draft.
Fowler was also the host of “SportsCentury.”
Is Fowler Married?
Fowler is married to Jennifer Dempster, a fitness instructor/model who appeared on ESPN in the 1990s on a show called “BodyShaping.”
Does Fowler Have Any Children?
Fowler does not have any children.