Audacy is proud to announce that legendary sports broadcaster Merrill Reese has been named a 2026 recipient of the prestigious Common Wealth Award of Distinguished Service for his outstanding contributions to mass communications and his lasting impact on sports broadcasting.

Reese was honored at the 2026 awards ceremony on April 24 at the Hotel DuPont in Wilmington, DE. Fellow 2026 honorees include astronaut Michael Massimino and actress Jane Seymour.

“Merrill Reese is a Philadelphia institution and one of the greatest play-by-play broadcasters in NFL history,” said David Yadgaroff, Senior Vice President of Sales, Audacy Philadelphia. “His passion, professionalism and unmistakable voice have defined generations of Eagles football on the radio. We’re incredibly proud to have him on our team and see him receive this well-deserved and remarkable achievement.”

Reese is entering his 50th season as the voice of the Philadelphia Eagles. His energy, preparation and signature calls have become part of the fabric of Philadelphia football, earning him deep respect across the sports world.

Established in 1979, the Common Wealth Awards of Distinguished Service honors exceptional individuals from around the world across a wide range of fields, including the arts, literature, science, public service and mass communications. Each recipient receives a $75,000 prize, funded through a trust established by Ralph Hayes and administered by PNC Bank Delaware. Over the years, more than 180 honorees have been recognized, with over $6 million awarded. The Common Wealth Awards are designed to celebrate meaningful achievement and inspire continued contributions across disciplines. Reese now joins a distinguished group of past honorees whose work has shaped culture, science, public service and the arts.

Martina McBride and Steven Van Zandt were recognized in 2025 for their contributions to music and philanthropy. Notable recipients over the years have included global leaders, groundbreaking artists, and influential thinkers such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Joe Biden, Colin Powell, Henry Kissinger, Meryl Streep, Morgan Freeman, Laurence Olivier, John Glenn, Buzz Aldrin, Annie Leibovitz, Martin Sheen, Toni Morrison, Ron Chernow, Salman Rushdie and Henry Louis Gates Jr.

Listeners can tune in to SportsRadio 94WIP in Philadelphia on-air and nationwide on the Audacy app and website. Fans can also connect with the station via X, Facebook, and Instagram.