It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we mourn the loss of Gregory Calvin, affectionately known to his colleagues and friends simply as “Cal.” The television industry has lost one of its most respected and cherished members, and those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him are grappling with the reality of his passing. Cal was more than just an extraordinary lead audio engineer for Showtime Championship Boxing and MMA broadcasts—he was a cornerstone of the productions he worked on, a friend, a mentor, and a person whose integrity and passion for his craft touched the lives of so many.
Cal’s impact on the television industry was immeasurable. He was a presence that extended beyond the technical aspects of audio engineering. In an industry where the spotlight often shines on the performers and presenters, Cal was a quiet force, the behind-the-scenes architect who ensured every sound, every cue, and every note was perfectly tuned to create the story that viewers would experience. For years, Cal was synonymous with excellence in sound production. His expertise shaped the way we experienced live sports broadcasts, and his work helped elevate the standard for what was possible in audio mixing.
It’s rare to come across someone like Cal—someone whose work ethic was unparalleled and whose humility made him all the more remarkable. While most of us were caught up in the excitement of the broadcast and the rush to meet deadlines, Cal remained focused on the task at hand, never compromising on the quality of the sound. He didn’t seek the limelight; his satisfaction came from doing his job to perfection. Whether it was a major boxing match or an MMA event, Cal was always there, his attention to detail ensuring that every sound element—from the roar of the crowd to the sharp jabs of the commentators—was captured with precision. His absence will be deeply felt by everyone who has had the honor of working alongside him.
The true mark of Cal’s character wasn’t just in his technical prowess but in his ability to make those around him feel valued. He was a master of balance—able to keep his calm under pressure while also offering a warm smile or a joke to lift the spirits of the team. He was the person who made the crew room feel like a family, the person who would sit with a cup of coffee in hand, talking about everything from audio equipment to his latest musical discoveries. His ability to connect with others on a human level was what made him not just a colleague, but a true friend.
Many of us had the privilege of spending countless hours in edit trucks or on long road trips with Cal, and those moments are etched in our memories. I’ll never forget the times we spent on flights together after a show, reflecting on what went well, what could have been better, and how we could continue to improve. Despite the exhaustion that often accompanied these long days, Cal was always engaged, always learning, always striving for excellence. He had a calm and thoughtful way of breaking down complex concepts, offering insights that made you see things from a new perspective. It was as though, by simply sharing his knowledge and experiences, Cal was constantly teaching us how to be better at our craft.
One of the things that made Cal so unique was his passion for music. Working alongside him, you couldn’t help but notice how deeply he was connected to the world of sound—not just in a technical sense, but in an emotional and personal one. Whether he was sharing his latest playlist, recommending a new album, or simply reflecting on the influence of a song, Cal’s love for music was infectious. He had an eclectic taste that spanned genres, from jazz to funk, hip-hop to rock, and everything in between. What made these conversations so special was the way he could speak about music with such depth and understanding, making even the most casual chat feel like a masterclass in the art of sound.
Through these conversations, I came to appreciate the way Cal viewed the world—not just as an audio engineer, but as a lover of life. He understood the power of sound, how it could evoke emotion, create tension, or bring joy. He approached his work with the same passion and reverence that he brought to his love of music. His ability to blend technical expertise with artistic expression was what made him stand out as one of the best in his field.
As a father, Cal’s devotion to his children, Steven and Katherine, was evident to all who knew him. He spoke often of his pride in them and the joy they brought to his life. It was clear that his role as a father meant the world to him, and he took great pride in being there for them. Despite the demands of his career, Cal always made time for his family, and his love for his children was a guiding force in his life.
Cal’s passing has left a deep hole in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His contributions to the television industry are immeasurable, but it is his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those he loved that will define his legacy. He leaves behind not only a body of work that will continue to inspire others but also a legacy of love and mentorship that will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of working with him.
As we remember Cal, we are reminded of the importance of kindness, of the impact that one person can have on the lives of others, and of the power of music and sound to bring people together. Cal’s legacy is one of humility, hard work, and above all, love. He was a true professional, a dedicated father, and a friend to many, and his loss is felt deeply by all who knew him.
In the days and weeks to come, we will continue to honor Cal’s memory, not just through the work we do but through the way we treat one another—with kindness, respect, and a deep appreciation for the bonds we share. Cal’s spirit will continue to live on in the lessons he taught us, in the stories we tell, and in the work we do to carry on the values he embodied.
As we say goodbye to our dear friend, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy will endure. He may no longer be with us, but his influence will continue to shape the world of television production, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues. Rest in peace, Cal. You will be missed more than words can express, but your impact on the world will never be forgotten. Thank you for everything you gave, both professionally and personally, and for the love and light you brought into our lives.
