April 17, 2025

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ESPN Layoffs Include top commentators

2 min read
ESPN

ESPN Layoffs

As part of a cost-cutting initiative, ESPN is laying off approximately 20 well-known sports commentators, according to a source knowledgeable about the situation.

Who got the hit:

The individuals affected include Max Kellerman, Keyshawn Johnson, Jeff Van Gundy, Jalen Rose, LaPhonso Ellis, and Suzy Kolber, who announced her layoff. The staff reductions are part of Disney’s larger effort to streamline operations and reduce costs, despite reporting a 56% growth in operating profit to $12.1 billion in 2022. ESPN stated that due to the current circumstances, they need to find additional cost savings in commentator salaries. While ESPN did not officially disclose the names of those laid off, several former network employees confirmed their departures on social media. Although all the commentators were under contract, they have the opportunity to explore other options despite their existing agreements.

According to Andrew Marchand of the New York Post, renowned NBA analyst and announcer Jeff Van Gundy is among the high-profile personalities departing from ESPN. The news of Van Gundy’s departure was followed by reports of former NBA player and studio analyst Jalen Rose being let go as well.

Speculation also circulated about the layoffs of longtime ESPN figure Max Kellerman and former NFL star Keyshawn Johnson, whose radio show with Jay Williams was reportedly canceled recently. Adding to the list of departures, Suzy Kolber, host of Monday Night Countdown, announced her layoff after an impressive 27-year tenure at the network.

 

Why:

ESPN emphasized that the layoffs were solely driven by cost-cutting measures and not indicative of job performance. It should be noted that the ESPN layoffs are separate from the broader workforce reduction occurring at Disney, which is affecting 7,000 employees.

 

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