Former ESPN colleagues at odds over longtime show’s cancellation after claim it went ‘woke’

The End of an Era: ESPN’s "Around the Horn" to Go Off the Air

After more than two decades on the air, ESPN’s popular debate show "Around the Horn" (ATH) will be coming to an end in May. The announcement of its cancellation has sparked a mix of emotions and reflections from fans, former contributors, and sports media insiders. For many, the show represented a unique blend of sports debate, camaraderie, and entertainment, making its impending departure a significant moment in the evolution of sports media.

The Show’s Demise and the Controversy Surrounding Its Cancellation

The news of "Around the Horn’s" cancellation has been met with sadness from loyal viewers, but it has also reignited old debates about the show’s direction and the broader shifts in sports media. Jay Mariotti, a former regular on the show until his departure in 2010 following a domestic violence arrest, has been vocal about his beliefs regarding the reasons behind the show’s demise. In a recent interview with Front Office Sports, Mariotti suggested that the show was canceled because it had gone "woke," a term often used to describe a perceived shift toward progressive or politically correct values.

Mariotti specifically pointed to the inclusion of certain personalities on the show, naming Jemele Hill and Michael Smith as examples. He claimed that the show "lost some audience" as a result of this shift and implied that ESPN’s leadership, under former president John Skipper, had intentionally pushed for an anti-Trump narrative on the program. Mariotti even went so far as to describe some panelists as being "on dope" in a recent Substack post, where he also implied that the show had effectively ended when he left it over a decade ago.

Jemele Hill and Michael Smith Push Back Against Mariotti’s Claims

Jemele Hill, who started appearing on "Around the Horn" in the late 2000s and went on to co-host SportsCenter with Michael Smith, took exception to Mariotti’s comments. In a response posted on X (formerly Twitter), Hill expressed her frustration with Mariotti for dragging her and Smith into his critique. She emphasized that she didn’t have a close relationship with Mariotti and rejected his claim that ESPN intentionally stacked the show with anti-Trump personalities, calling it a "dumb statement."

Hill also highlighted the significance of "Around the Horn" as a platform that showcased a diverse range of voices and perspectives, which she credited with helping launch and further her own career. Her sentiments were echoed by many in the sports media world, who view the show as an institution that provided opportunities for numerous talented personalities over the years.

The Broader Debate About ESPN’s Political Shift

Mariotti’s comments have touched on a larger debate about ESPN’s perceived shift toward political commentary and progressive values. While the network has long been a leader in sports journalism, it has faced criticism in recent years for what some perceive as an overemphasis on social and political issues. Critics like Mariotti argue that this shift has alienated some viewers who tune in solely for sports coverage. However, others, including many current and former ESPN personalities, argue that sports and politics have always been intertwined and that addressing these issues is a natural part of covering the sports world.

The Legacy of "Around the Horn" and Its Impact on Sports Media

Despite the controversy surrounding its cancellation, "Around the Horn" leaves behind a legacy as one of the most influential sports debate shows in television history. Its fast-paced format, which featured a rotating panel of personalities debating the hottest topics in sports, became a staple of ESPN’s programming. The show not only provided entertainment but also served as a launching pad for many careers, including those of Hill, Smith, and Mariotti himself.

As the show prepares to air its final episode on May 23, fans and insiders alike are reflecting on its impact and the memories it has created over the years. While the reasons for its cancellation may continue to be debated, there is no denying the significant role "Around the Horn" has played in shaping sports media.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Sports Media and the Lessons of "Around the Horn"

As "Around the Horn" prepares to sign off for the last time, its cancellation serves as a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of sports media. The show’s success was built on its ability to adapt and evolve over the years, and its legacy will undoubtedly influence the next generation of sports debate programs. While the debate over ESPN’s direction and the role of politics in sports media will likely continue, one thing is clear: "Around the Horn" will be remembered as a groundbreaking program that left an indelible mark on the world of sports television.