Frank Chirkinian, 84, golf producer at CBS

March 06, 2011|Dave Skretta, Associated Press

NEW YORK — Frank Chirkinian, the longtime golf producer for CBS who helped turn the Masters into one of the most-watched events on television, died Friday in his home in North Palm Beach, Fla. He was 84.

The television pioneer was elected to the World Golf Hall of Fame last month, during an emergency vote after it became known he was undergoing treatment for lung cancer. He will be inducted posthumously May 9.

He produced the first PGA Championship in 1958, and 38 editions of the Masters for CBS, bringing the majestic fairways and greens of Augusta to fans.

Mr. Chirkinian introduced high-angle cameras and new angles, put roving reporters on the grounds, made sure to capture the unique blend of sounds of the game, and even changed the way scores were delivered, according to par rather than by total.

He retired from CBS in the late 1990s, but could still be found on the golf course.

Mr. Chirkinian taped an acceptance speech that will be played during the Hall of Fame ceremony.