BREAKING: The Cincinnati Reds community is heartbroken following the death of Jesse Jackson, the team’s longtime television stage manager, who reportedly passed away earlier this week. Jackson was a cherished member of the Reds’ broadcast team for over 30 years, with tributes pouring in from fellow broadcasters and fans alike.
Veteran Reds analyst Chris Welsh broke the news on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, revealing that Jackson was not only a colleague but also his best friend. Welsh stated, “So sad to lose my best friend, Jesse Jackson. He brought a smile to everyone he met and was the best stage manager of all time.” He further elaborated on Jackson’s unique ability to maintain order during broadcasts, recalling how he would command silence with a deep voice, saying “STAND BY,” a phrase that became synonymous with Reds TV.
Welsh’s heartfelt tribute continued, “His job was to keep order in the booth and be sure guests weren’t making too much noise while we were on the air.” He added, “Love you, Jesse.” This emotional farewell resonated across the Cincinnati broadcasting community.
Hours after Welsh’s announcement, Reds play-by-play announcer John Sadak shared his condolences, amplifying the outpouring of grief. News anchor Tanya O’Rourke expressed her sorrow, reminiscing about Jackson’s warmth, saying, “He always had a smile, a hug, and kind word for me. Heaven got a good guy.”
Thom Brennaman, host of “The Morning Show” on WLW-AM, joined the tributes, stating, “I wish I could see your smile and hear your laughter for another day. You were such a beautiful man. I love you, Jesse.” Jackson’s colleagues emphasized that he was more than a stage manager; he was a mentor and a calming presence in the high-stakes world of live sports broadcasting.
Jackson’s passing marks a profound loss for the Reds and their fans. His voice and guidance were integral to the rhythm of gameday experiences, akin to the crack of the bat or the roar of the crowd. The emotional tributes reflect not just the loss of a colleague, but the deep connections he fostered over decades.
The Reds organization has yet to announce any formal memorial plans, but it is clear that Jesse Jackson’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. As the community mourns, fans are encouraged to share their memories and stories to honor the man who dedicated his life to sports broadcasting.
Stay tuned for updates as more tributes and details emerge in the coming days.
