Jim Hill Honored with 77th Los Angeles Area Emmy Governors Award
The Television Academy has awarded sportscaster Jim Hill the 77th Los Angeles Area Emmy Governors Award, celebrating his remarkable five-decade career in broadcasting. The announcement came during a segment on KCAL News, delivered by Cris Abrego, chair of the Television Academy.
"You have been an icon in this industry for many years, specifically in Los Angeles," Abrego stated, recognizing Hill's impact. "I am a born-and-raised Angeleno. I grew up watching you, watching the sports highlights with my dad. This is an incredible honor to tell you that you have been selected to receive the Los Angeles area Emmy Governors Award this year."
The award presentation is scheduled for July 26 at the Skirball Cultural Center, marking a significant milestone in Hill's illustrious career.
"It's not often I get speechless, but this time I am," Hill remarked. "This is a day I will never forget ... I am truly honored."
Each year, the LA Area Governors Award committee recognizes individuals or organizations that have made substantial contributions to the greater Los Angeles area through innovative and visionary achievements in television.
For nearly 50 years, Hill has been a prominent figure in the Los Angeles sports landscape, earning respect as one of the industry's leading anchors. His broadcasting journey began as a disc jockey and talk show host at KINE AM in Kingsville, Texas, while he also played football at Texas A&I University, now Texas A&M-Kingsville.
Hill's professional sports career took off in 1968 when he was drafted 18th overall by the San Diego Chargers in the NFL draft. He played for the Green Bay Packers and Cleveland Browns before retiring from professional football in 1975.
In 1976, Hill returned to broadcasting as a sportscaster for CBS Los Angeles, where he spent 11 years before moving to KABC-TV. After a four-year tenure at KABC, he rejoined CBS in March 1992 and continues to work with the KCBS/KCAL duopoly.
Since his return to CBS, Hill has witnessed 16 championships won by LA sports teams. Notably, he was present in the locker room following the LA Dodgers' World Series victory in 2024.
Hill joins a prestigious group of Southern California sports broadcasting legends who have received the Governor's Award, including Stu Lantz, Bob Miller, Chick Hearn, and Vin Scully.
Beyond his broadcasting achievements, Hill is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has chaired LA County's anti-drug program "Just Say No," served on the board of directors for the LA Urban League, led the Watts Summer Game, presided over Athletes for Kids, and participated on the advisory board for the Grossman Burn Center.
Matthew Rodriguez is a digital producer for CBS Los Angeles and has reported for various local outlets. He typically covers breaking news and crime.
