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NBC Announces Hosts for 2026 Milan Cortina Closing Ceremony

2/22/2026

26 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

NBC has selected Terry Gannon, Tara Lipinski, and Johnny Weir to host the 2026 Milan Cortina closing ceremony.
The live ceremony airs at 2:30 p.m. ET, followed by an hour-long recap, and NBC will rebroadcast in primetime with Mike Tirico, Andrea Joyce, and Lewis Johnson.
The trio has hosted closing ceremonies at four other Olympic Games.
Gannon also hosted opening ceremony after Savannah Guthrie withdrew due to a family emergency.

History

Historical Context

The 2008 Beijing Olympics, awarded on July 13, 2001, marked a pivotal moment in sports media, with NBC investing $1.2 billion in coverage. Despite concerns over China's human rights record, the event showcased significant athletic achievements, including Michael Phelps' record of eight gold medals. The selection of familiar commentators for future ceremonies reflects ongoing strategies to enhance viewer engagement in global sports culture.

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Story summary

NBC has selected Terry Gannon, Tara Lipinski, and Johnny Weir to host the 2026 Milan Cortina closing ceremony.
The live ceremony airs at 2:30 p.m. ET, followed by an hour-long recap, and NBC will rebroadcast in primetime with Mike Tirico, Andrea Joyce, and Lewis Johnson.
The trio has hosted closing ceremonies at four other Olympic Games.
Gannon also hosted opening ceremony after Savannah Guthrie withdrew due to a family emergency.

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