ESPN Fires Longstanding Female Pioneer in Sports Broadcasting

Suzy Kolber, a renowned sports journalist, and broadcaster, has been laid off by ESPN after an incredible 27-year tenure with the company. This unfortunate development is part of a series of wider job cuts undertaken by Disney throughout the year. Kolber, who enjoyed a remarkable 38-year career in the industry, was most recently recognized as the host of Monday Night Countdown.

A Pioneer in Sports Broadcasting

The news of Kolber’s departure has sent shockwaves through the sports community, leaving colleagues and fans disheartened. Twitter has been full of discussions and reactions to her announcement. Her tweet has already had several million views, with people expressing their sadness and disappointment regarding the decision.

Today I join the many hard-working colleagues who have been laid off.

Heartbreaking-but 27 years at ESPN was a good run.

So grateful for a 38 yr career!

Longevity for a woman in this business is something I’m especially proud of.

Next step- a project that gives back. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/URitozP0LQ

— Suzy Kolber (@SuzyKolber) June 30, 2023

During her time at ESPN, Suzy Kolber had established herself as a respected and beloved figure in sports broadcasting. Her professionalism and insightful analysis made her popular with sports fans. Kolber was seen as a pioneer in an industry dominated by men. Her 27-year career with ESPN is impressive and inspirational to many who followed her journey in sports over the years.

Kolber had a brief stint where she left for Fox Sports but returned to ESPN some time ago. She was also one of the original anchors when ESPN2 launched in 1993. The longstanding anchor was notably featured in SportsCenter and Monday Night Football during her career.

The layoffs at ESPN, which have affected several major employees in various roles, are part of Disney’s ongoing restructuring efforts. The media giant has been implementing a series of cost-cutting measures this year, resulting in numerous job losses across its subsidiaries. Jeff Van Gundy, Keyshawn Johnson, and Todd McShay were also among those let go by ESPN.

Colleagues Weigh In

Colleagues of Kolber have openly expressed their admiration and support for her on social media. They acknowledged her significant contributions to the sports broadcasting industry. Many have taken to Twitter to express their sadness at the news and to share fond memories of working alongside the esteemed journalist. The outpouring of messages proves Kolber’s impact on her colleagues and the sports community.

Suzy Kolber is a pioneer and a legend. She, like others laid off today, always will be remembered and missed. https://t.co/yVODbL7lDl

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 30, 2023

This new set of layoffs is just another notch in the belt for Disney’s current problems. The company has had an awkward year regarding its public image. Multiple box office failures and a fight with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are additional hurdles outside of the several rounds of layoffs that have happened this year.

While this challenging period marks the end of Kolber’s longstanding association with ESPN, she seems to be planning for the future already. She stressed that her next endeavor will be a project that gives back.