Costas Interview with Sandusky Earns Emmy

Longtime broadcaster and sports commenter Bob Costas won an Emmy for his interview with Jerry Sandusky on NBC’s Rock Center on Nov. 14, 2011. The award, under the ‘News and Documentary’ Emmy category, will be Costas’ first.

The interview was significant due to the fact that it was the first time Sandusky had spoken publicly following the events of the previous week, including Joe Paterno’s ouster as head coach.

The unexpected interview produced a few unforgettably awkward moments. Rather than approach Sandusky’s actions tenderly, Costas instead drove to the core of Sandusky’s actions looking for some revelation. Sandusky’s unorthodox and revealing responses to the questions posed served as the most memorable takeaways from the phone interview.

Additionally, the presence of Sandusky’s attorney Joe Amendola situated on stage next to Costas further added to the bizarre nature of the interview. Many came away questioning the logic of the defense team.

The interview was also played in court as evidence against Sandusky by the prosecution during his trial this summer.