Named “the best interviewer in the business” by Sports Illustrated, Roy Firestone believes in “taking every talent you have and exploring it to see what happens.” As one of America’s most versatile and original talents, Firestone has followed that philosophy into a variety of genres, excelling as interviewer, commentator, and stage performer.
Critically acclaimed for his work in broadcast journalism, Firestone has won seven Emmy® Awards and seven Cable ACE Awards; he has interviewed more than 5,000 people, including nearly every major sports figure. The late Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Jim Murray called Firestone, “the best interviewer I’ve ever seen. That’s not the best interviewer in sports, that’s the best interviewer period.”
Driven by curiosity and passion to venture outside of sports and explore the arts, Firestone has also interviewed a dizzying array of the world’s most notable, and sometimes notorious, personalities. From former President Richard Nixon to the big screen’s Everyman, James Stewart, from jazz legend Miles Davis to pop icon Madonna, Firestone’s interview subjects are an eclectic mix, occupying the worlds of art, music, politics, and popular entertainment.
Firestone performs his multi-media review before audiences in Las Vegas, at major sporting events, meetings, formal events and conventions throughout the world. The accomplished singer, impressionist, and humorist has shared the bill with notables such as Frank Sinatra, Michael McDonald, country superstar Wynonna, Gladys Knight, the Four Tops, and Frankie Valli. Appearances include Late Night with David Letterman, Later with Bob Costas, Nightline, and Larry King Live.
Firestone wrote the book, Up Close and In Your Face with the Greats, Near Greats, and Ingrates of Sports, and appeared in the movie, Jerry Maguire.
Firestone has performed for hundreds of corporate clients including: AT&T, Cadillac, Quaker Oats, Pepsi, Nike, Toyota, Avia, General Foods, Delta Airlines, Mayflower Movers, Sun Computers, Prudential, Thrifty Car Rental, Northwest Airlines, Russell Athletic, Fujitsu, Anheuser Busch, The Sports Authority, OfficeMax, Chevron, Transamerica, Sara Lee, Frito-Lay, Pontiac, and QuakerState.
In his home town of Miami Beach, Florida, Firestone began his career as a sports reporter and anchor before moving to Los Angeles as a sports anchor for KCBS-TV (1977-85). He was host of ESPN’s SportsLook (1980-90) and Up Close Prime Time, as well as AOL’s Time Out With Roy Firestone and Mark Cuban’s HDNet Face To Face With Roy Firestone. Roy currently lives in Los Angeles.
Roy Firestone - A One Man-Show
Motivational speaker Roy Firestone gives a one-hour presentation, filled with humor, inspiration and poignancy. This uplifting variety program offers a comedic, musical and dynamic look into the world, not merely about sports but using it as a metaphor for real life. A monologist, impressionist, singer, and first-class motivational performer, his presentations are a one of a kind stage show that provides audiences a memorable and fun experience that leaves attendees in hysterics.
Why Do Sports Matter?
In an era of scandals, cheats, lawlessness, greed, and indulgence, what is so good about sports? Roy Firestone brings the spectacle of sports in a funny, entertaining, moving, inspiring, and uplifting way. Don't miss his one of a kind live presentation.
All Roy Firestone Books
Up Close and in Your Face With the Greats, Near-Greats, and Ingrates of Sports
Purchase Book
Don’t Make Me Cry, Roy : Adventures in Interviewing
Purchase BookRoy came to our group and gave us such a renewed sense of hope, energy, urgency and patriotism. We are educators and supporters of our military families, and HE supported US! What a wonderful guy to return the thanks we had for him. When we look into the faces of sailors and their families, it is nice to know there are Americans like Roy who support them and care for them. Even if we pass along one little joke or encouragement from the show, Roy is touching the lives of our military through us. Thank you so much Roy...GO NAVY!
- Chris De Graw | US Navy
