John Brenkus, host of ESPN’s ‘Sport Science’ show, dies at 54

Published: Jun. 2, 2025 at 4:32 PM CDT
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(CNN) - John Brenkus, the founder and host of the Emmy-winning show “Sports Science” on ESPN, has died. He was 54.

According to a statement on his social media , Brenkus died after battling with depression on May 31.

The statement says “his heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.”

“Sports Science” first aired in 2007 on Fox Sports before moving to ESPN. The show won six Emmy awards.

In a tribute to Brenkus on ESPN, Brenkus was described as an “innovator, an entertainer and an educator.”

John Brenkus arrives at the ESPY Awards at the Microsoft Theater on Wednesday, July 18, 2018,...
John Brenkus arrives at the ESPY Awards at the Microsoft Theater on Wednesday, July 18, 2018, in Los Angeles.(Willy Sanjuan | Willy Sanjuan/Invision/AP)