ESPN's 'Around the Horn' ends after two decades of contentious discussions

In early May 2025, ESPN's talk program 'Around the Horn' concluded after two successful decades of broadcasting. The cancellation was announced amid discussions about the show's evolving content and perceived political leanings. Critics, including former panelist Jay Mariotti, suggested that the decision stemmed from fears of the show being labeled as 'woke.' Mariotti pointed out that while the show's format allowed for diverse perspectives, the network may have been reluctant to embrace some of the more progressive conversations featured in recent episodes. In contrast, the show's longtime host, Tony Reali, contested that the cancellation was not primarily due to these political concerns but rather an evolution in viewership and programming preferences. Former panelist Kate Fagan made an emotional plea during her last appearance, advocating for the rights of trans youth in sports, a topic that might have contributed to the show's shift towards addressing contemporary social issues. The show's final episodes highlighted conflicts among panelists, with discussions becoming more intense and frequently diverging into sensitive social issues. With its cancelation, many fans of the show, along with critics, reflected upon its legacy in sports journalism. Some panelists were noted to have transitioned from lighthearted sports discussions to deeper societal implications, leading to a divide in audience reception. Describing these tensions, Mariotti stated, 'the format allows for a continuous stream of new people,' capturing the core dynamic that characterized the show's journey. The end of 'Around the Horn' has sparked broader conversations surrounding the future of sports journalism and the treatment of controversial topics in mainstream media. As various hosts and contributors have voiced differing views on the show's implications for sporting discourse, the discussion of sports as a microcosm for society continues. ERNELL Cambodia, a publication, isolated the impact of cultural shifts on sports discussions, suggesting that many established formats may struggle to adapt in an evolving conversational landscape that increasingly seeks to challenge traditional sports narratives. Ultimately, the cancellation reflects a larger trend within media to remain attuned to public sentiment while balancing the need for engaging programming. This struggle might be symptomatic of broader issues confronting media companies as they navigate changing cultural landscapes amidst a backdrop of social change and audience diversification. The evolution of 'Around the Horn' serves as a case study for how legacy media outlets might need to recalibrate their approaches to remain relevant in a rapidly shifting environment.