Dennis Cometti, the iconic Australian sports commentator whose 51-year career spanned the ABC, Channel 7 and Channel 9, has died at 76, leaving a lasting imprint on AFL, cricket, and the Olympics.

He created a cultural footprint with his signature Cometti-isms—phrases that blended precision, humor, and warmth—and earned tributes from AFL executives, players, and fans.

Before his broadcasting fame, Cometti played for West Perth in the WAFL from 1967 to 1971, appearing in 38 games and kicking 70 goals, including a standout 1968 season with 63 goals.

He is survived by his wife Velia and two children, Ricki and Mark, with no public details released about his illness or exact cause of death.

Among his famous moments, his quip during Heath Shaw’s 2010 smother—“He came up behind him like a librarian”—lingered in memory as part of his distinctive style.

A notable line from Tony Liberatore’s clash moment—“He went in optimistically and came out misty optically”—showcased his clever wordplay that fans associated with him.

There was talk of a state funeral, but the final decision rests with the family, who may opt for a private service.

News outlets published tributes and related video links, with the central focus remaining on honoring Cometti’s life and work.

Cometti’s foreword work with a friend and fellow broadcaster highlighted how some lines were pre-prepared while others were improvised during live broadcasts.

The report is sourced from news outlets and notes it is an update to the developing story.

Quotations about other moments, such as a line about Simon Black’s inside presence—“if Simon Black was any more inside, he’d be a pancreas”—underline his memorable, inventive phrasing.

Memorable calls included rugby-era or AFL contexts, such as the 2004 Port Adelaide vs. Fremantle clash with the line about the two Carrs wearing No. 9.