According to CNN, around 20 well-known on-air commentators at ESPN, owned by Disney, are being laid off as part of cost-cutting measures. The list of those affected includes Jeff Van Gundy, Jalen Rose, Max Kellerman, Steve Young, Suzy Kolber, Keyshawn Johnson, Ashley Brewer, Todd McShay, and LaPhonso Ellis. ESPN stated that due to the current circumstances, they need to find additional cost savings in the area of commentator salaries.
This comes after Disney CEO Bob Iger announced earlier this year that 7,000 jobs would be cut. ESPN has already laid off writers, editors, production employees, and executives, as reported by Yahoo Sports.
One notable figure affected by the layoffs is Jeff Van Gundy, who has been an analyst for ESPN’s top NBA team for the past 16 years. Jalen Rose, a former NBA player, and Steve Young, an NFL Hall of Famer, were also among those let go, according to Sports Illustrated. Todd McShay, a top NFL draft analyst, has been a significant loss for ESPN, as reported by USA Today. Suzy Kolber, who hosted the NFL pregame program “Monday Night Countdown,” announced her departure on Twitter.
In her tweet, Kolber expressed her sadness over the news but also reflected on her 38-year career at ESPN. She mentioned her pride in having longevity as a woman in the industry and expressed gratitude for her time at the network. Joon Lee, a baseball reporter, also announced his layoff through a tweet, stating his excitement for what the future holds.
This news has undoubtedly shaken the sports broadcasting world, and it remains to be seen how ESPN will move forward without these prominent and respected commentators.
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