Norman Chad is best known as the witty and lovable voice behind ESPN’s World Series of Poker broadcasts, a role that turned him into a cult favorite among poker fans. With his signature humor and offbeat commentary, Chad helped transform televised poker into a mainstream phenomenon.
But beyond the mic, he’s also built a respectable poker résumé, here is a report on his early life, career, and poker journey and winnings.
Norman Chad’s Early Life and Introduction to Poker
Born on August 17, 1958, Norman Chad grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland. He attended Northwood High School and later earned a degree in American Studies from the University of Maryland.
As a child, Chad wasn’t particularly drawn to outdoor sports. Instead, he preferred the comfort of television, a medium that would eventually shape his career. Reflecting on those early years, Chad once remarked, “I knew at an early age somehow my life would have something to do with television. As it turned out, here I am still watching TV – now for a living.”
Although his family had little interest in sports or gambling, Chad developed a strong passion for sports on his own. He became the sports editor of his high school newspaper, laying the groundwork for his future in journalism.
From Sportswriter to Poker Commentator
Chad began his professional journey as a sportswriter, contributing to The Washington Post and National Sports Daily. Known for blending sharp sports analysis with a dose of humor, he quickly established a unique voice in sports journalism.
His foray into the poker world began in 2003, when ESPN brought him on to provide commentary for the World Series of Poker Main Event. Despite having little experience with the game, Chad’s humorous and quirky take on poker made him an instant fan favorite. Over two decades later, his voice remains one of the most recognizable in poker broadcasting.
Poker Career Highlights and Tournament Winnings
Though best known for his commentary, Norman Chad has proven his skills at the tables as well. He cashed in his first live poker tournament in 2009 at the Winnin’ O’ The Green’s $225 Seven Card Stud 8. That same year, he earned his first WSOP cash by finishing 32nd in the $1,500 Seven Card Stud Hi/Lo event, taking home $3,288.
In 2011, he placed 12th in the $1,500 Seven Card Stud Hi/Lo at the World Series of Poker and won $10,676. The following year, at the 2012 WSOP, Chad had one of his most impressive performances, finishing 6th in the $2,500 Omaha/Seven Card Stud event and earning $36,093.
Chad continued to perform well in subsequent years. In 2014, he finished 10th in the prestigious $10,000 7-Card Stud Hi/Lo Championship, winning $34,550. During the 2020 WSOP Online series, he placed 13th in the $1,000 Omaha 8 or Better event for $4,638. Two years later, in 2022, Chad cashed again by finishing 13th in the $1,500 Mixed Games Dealer’s Choice event, pocketing $5,993.
In 2024, Chad scored three more money finishes at the WSOP, including a 15th place result in the $10K Limit Seven Card Stud Hi/Lo 8 or Better for which he earned $21,000. His most recent cash, in 2025, came at a WSOP Circuit event, where he finished 8th in the $600 Mixed Games: Limit T.O.R.S.E. tournament and took home $1,264.
To date, Chad has accumulated over $140,000 in live tournament winnings from 27 cashes.
Awards and Achievements
Norman Chad’s influence on poker extends far beyond the felt. His lighthearted, often self-deprecating commentary brought personality and accessibility to a game that was once viewed as niche or intimidating. Many credit him with helping poker reach its mainstream boom during the 2000s.
In recognition of his contributions, Chad was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 American Poker Awards (now the Global Poker Awards), solidifying his legacy as a beloved figure in the poker world.
Norman Chad still actively works in the Poker Industry, commentating at the World Series of Poker every year. Keep following PokerProNews for more such inspiring stories from the world of poker
