**ESPN’s “Around the Horn” Concludes After Two Decades on Air**
As of this Friday, ESPN’s long-running show “Around the Horn” will air its final episode, marking the end of a two-decade journey in sports commentary. The show, known for its dynamic panel discussions, has been a staple of ESPN’s programming since its inception.
Jay Mariotti, a former regular on the show who left following a domestic violence arrest in 2010, recently suggested that the cancellation is due to the show becoming “woke.” In contrast, current panelist Sarah Spain expressed her confusion over the cancellation, questioning whether the network is overly concerned about being labeled as such. In an interview with The Washington Post, she stated, “It confounds me that they are canceling it. The format allows for a continuous stream of new people, to highlight reporters on your network. I’m admittedly biased, but this is progressive voices and people of color you’re taking off TV. I don’t know for sure that’s their intention, but are you so scared of getting called ‘woke’?”
Tony Reali, the show’s longtime host, dismissed the notion that the show’s cancellation was due to its content. He stated on “The Dan Patrick Show,” “I don’t believe what that is. I honestly think we did 50,000 topics over 23 years. You’re going to tell me 10 or 15 drew an eyebrow up? I’ll be like, ‘Yeah, we were doing some complex topics from time to time.’”
In one of its final episodes, Kate Fagan, who had not appeared on the show since 2018, was declared the “winner” against Jemele Hill, who was also absent from the show since her departure that same year. During her victory speech, Fagan advocated for trans kids in sports, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and belonging in athletics.
Mariotti, in his commentary, mentioned Hill and suggested that the show had lost some of its audience. He further elaborated in a post on his Substack, claiming that the show had “ended a long time ago” when he left, and criticized some panelists for adopting a “woke” stance.
As “Around the Horn” bids farewell, it leaves behind a legacy of spirited debate and diverse perspectives in sports journalism.
**FAQ**
**Why is “Around the Horn” being canceled?**
The cancellation of “Around the Horn” has sparked debate, with some attributing it to the show’s perceived shift towards progressive topics, while others believe it reflects broader changes in network programming.
