November 17, 2025 – The sports broadcasting industry is mourning the sudden loss of Denise “Daneysse” Daniels, a 35-year-old Emmy Award-winning production manager whose work behind the scenes influenced many of the most iconic live sports events. Her unexpected passing was announced during ESPN’s Monday Night Football broadcast, leaving colleagues, friends, and fans deeply shocked.
What Happened
Daniels, known affectionately as “DVD” by her coworkers, passed away unexpectedly, with the announcement coming during one of the biggest platforms in sports broadcasting. Her death marks the loss of an industry leader who made an indelible impact on sports television through her technical expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her craft.
Over her ten-year career, Daniels became an integral figure in the sports broadcasting world, working with major networks such as ESPN, TNT Sports, and FOX Sports. Her hands-on approach, combined with her ability to manage complex logistics while maintaining a positive environment for her teams, earned her a respected place in the hearts of those who worked with her.
Who Was Daneysse Daniels?
Daniels’ journey in sports broadcasting began in 2013 when she started as a production assistant at FOX Sports. Her passion for sports and television led her to quickly advance to Manager of Production. Her skills were integral to the success of numerous high-profile events, including the Stanley Cup Final, NCAA March Madness, and UFC International Fight Week.
Daniels was best known for her involvement in major sports productions such as Monday Night Football, the College Football Playoff National Championships, and Super Bowls LI, LII, LVI, and LVII. She was also deeply involved in the NFL Draft and Pro Bowl Games, events that drew millions of viewers each year.
For the past four years, Daniels worked with TNT Sports, where she managed operations for high-profile events such as the NHL on TNT, NCAA March Madness, and NBA on TNT. Her work on these broadcasts showcased her exceptional technical acumen and ability to oversee complex productions, making her a key player in some of the most watched live sporting events in television history.
Career, Legacy, and Contributions
Daniels was known for her technical brilliance, but she was equally revered for her leadership and dedication to fostering a positive, supportive work environment. Her peers and colleagues have remembered her not only for her professional achievements but also for her genuine warmth, kindness, and loyalty.
“TNT studio host Liam McHugh reflected on her legacy, saying, “Daneysse was engaged in her passion for life: working in television. She pursued it academically, she worked hard for it, and she will be profoundly missed.”
Paul Hemming, game director for the Utah Mammoth and former lead game director for NHL on TNT, expressed deep admiration for Daniels, saying, “She was an incredible teammate who consistently supported me. Whatever we required, Daneysse always ensured it was accomplished.”
Daniels’ ability to handle the demanding logistics of live sports production while maintaining a high level of enthusiasm and positivity made her an industry legend. Her colleagues often cited her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to bring out the best in everyone she worked with.
Public and Social Media Reactions
The news of Daniels’ passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the sports-television community. Colleagues from across networks, as well as fans of the major events she helped produce, have shared heartfelt messages on social media, mourning the loss of such a talented and beloved figure.
“Daneysse was the heart and soul of so many productions. The sports television industry has lost a true star,” wrote one Twitter user. Another colleague shared, “Her talent and kindness will be missed by so many of us who had the privilege of working with her.”
Closing
Daneysse Daniels’ death is a profound loss to the sports broadcasting community. Her passion for television, coupled with her leadership and technical expertise, helped shape some of the most watched events in sports history. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who had the honor of working alongside her. Daniels leaves behind a lasting mark on the industry and will be remembered for both her professional excellence and her personal kindness.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
