End of an Era for Around the Horn
The renowned ESPN show Around the Horn is set to conclude its remarkable 23-year run, with its final broadcast slated for this Friday. The show has accumulated an impressive tally of over 4,900 episodes since it first aired on November 4, 2002, and has built a legacy in the realm of sports debate television.
As announcement of the conclusion approaches, longtime host Tony Reali shared his thoughts on the show’s cancellation during an appearance on the FOS Today program. Reali noted that there has been much speculation about the reasons behind the cancellation, which includes former panelist Jay Mariotti's assertion that the show was considered “too woke.”
When asked if this claim bore any weight, Reali expressed uncertainty but emphasized, "I don’t know if I have an answer; I don’t know if I need an answer." He conveyed that he could accept the notion that decisions in network management may involve creative differences. Moreover, he challenged critics to provide evidence if they believed the show had veered in any particular direction over its extensive run: "If you think the show was one thing or the other, show me, give me 20 to 30 examples."
Evaluating the Show's Unique Approach
Reali further defended the show's format and direction. Regarding Mariotti's surprise at the show's evolution from a pair of rotating panelists to a larger discussion group, Reali articulated his belief that the breadth of perspectives brought to the table was a strength rather than a detriment.
He stated, "I believe that was a strength of the show. Maybe we hit a lot of topics other shows on our network weren’t doing." In a landscape dominated by predictable narratives, Reali stands firm in his conviction that Around the Horn distinguished itself through its variety and depth of discussions.
Reflecting on the lack of feedback from network management, Reali confirmed, "I never got one note other than 'Keep on doing what you're doing.'" He felt that the absence of controversies around the discussions was a sign that the show was functioning in a manner consistent with network values.
Looking Back on Personal Experiences
In a more personal narrative, an anonymous contributor recalled their time as a panelist on Around the Horn, humorously noting their distinction as the least successful participant in the show’s history. Out of 60 panelists, most have won episodes, while this individual managed to participate multiple times without securing a single victory.
The departure from the show evokes a sense of nostalgia as they recount initial anxieties and challenges faced when they first appeared. Having minimal on-air experience, they approached their appearances with a mixture of anticipation and dread. The learning curve brought with it a realization that being on the show was unlike just casual sports discussions among friends.
Despite their own struggles, the contributor hailed the overall impact of Around the Horn as a launching pad for numerous talents in the sports media landscape, emphasizing how it allowed diverse voices to flourish.
Final Thoughts and Reali's Mt. Rushmore
As Around the Horn prepares for its final sign-off, Reali shared his personal “Mt. Rushmore” of panelists, highlighting Wood Paige for his synonymous connection with the show, Mina Kimes for her fearlessness, and Bomani Jones for his unique debating style. These selections reflect Reali's appreciation for the show’s spirited discussions.
As the last episode of Around the Horn approaches, it is not only the end of a broadcast but also the conclusion of a chapter in sports media that significantly shaped the landscape of on-air discussion. The culmination of nearly 23 years has positioned the show among giants in broadcasting history, surpassing even the likes of iconic programs hosted by Oprah Winfrey and David Letterman.
Viewers are left not only with the memories of heated sports debates but also with a testament to the evolution of sports commentary on television.
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