Tonight, George Michael, by far Washington's best known and most dynamic sports reporter, leaves his post at Channel 4. The move, announced in November, comes amid a swath of cutbacks at NBC which claimed fellow sportscaster Wally Bruckner along with Susan Kidd, Arch Campbell, I.J. Hudson and Clay Anderson. While Michael was offered a generous deal to stay, it would have come at the cost of cutting half his staff.

After 27 years at Channel 4, the bombastic broadcaster became not only a Washington fixture, but also a national one, securing his spot as the second most famous man of the same name. His syndicated "Sports Machine" was a precursor to "SportsCenter" and aired throughout the country. Two relative newcomers will take over sports anchoring at the station, but it's clear that no one working in D.C. today has the same popularity with area fans.

Last night the Wizards featured a video tribute to Michael during halftime, including footage from his reports through the decades and even his appearance on "The Tonight Show." He was given his own Wizards jersey and watched the game from Abe Polin's suite. Cal Ripken, Wes Unseld and even Joe Gibbs were on hand to honor the retiring hero.

Catch George Michael's last broadcast at 11 p.m. tonight on Channel 4. The last "Sports Machine" will air on March 25, while Michael will continue to host both "Redskins Report" and "Full Court Press." He'll also air regular Monday chats with Coach Gibbs.

Photo from nbc4.com