ESPN Cancels ‘Around the Horn’ After 23 Years; Final Episode to Air on May 23

After an incredible 23-year run, ESPN has officially announced the cancellation of its long-standing afternoon sports debate show, Around the Horn. The final episode is set to air on May 23, 2025, marking the end of an era for one of sports television’s most engaging debate programs.

The Legacy of ‘Around the Horn’

Premiering in November 2002, Around the Horn quickly became a staple of ESPN’s afternoon lineup. Originally hosted by Max Kellerman, the show gained immense popularity when Tony Reali took over in 2004. For over two decades, Reali has moderated heated discussions among some of the most respected sportswriters in the industry.

The show’s unique format—where panelists from across the country debate trending sports topics while earning or losing points based on their arguments—has turned contributors like JA Adande, Jemele Hill, Bomani Jones, Mina Kimes, Jackie MacMullan, Pablo Torre, and Woody Paige into household names. Many of these personalities have gone on to have prominent careers at ESPN and beyond.

ESPN Confirms Cancellation Amid Network Restructuring

David Roberts, ESPN’s Executive VP and Executive Editor of Sports News and Entertainment, acknowledged the show’s rare longevity in an official statement:

“‘Around the Horn’ has had a remarkable run of more than two decades. That kind of longevity in media is incredibly rare, and we look forward to celebrating the show’s many accomplishments before the final sign-off in May.”

While no permanent replacement has been announced, ESPN has confirmed that a half-hour edition of SportsCenter will take over the ATH time slot this summer. However, the network has not revealed long-term plans for the slot.

ESPN’s Ongoing Changes and Layoffs

The cancellation of Around the Horn comes at a time when ESPN is undergoing major changes, including layoffs of on-air and behind-the-scenes talent. Notable departures in recent years include Zach Lowe, Jeff Van Gundy, and Suzy Kolber, as well as executives from various divisions. Additionally, the network has announced plans to part ways with Major League Baseball (MLB) in the near future.

The end of Around the Horn marks another significant shift in ESPN’s programming strategy. With Pardon the Interruption still holding its ground, it remains to be seen how the network will reshape its afternoon lineup in the long term.

Final Goodbye to a Sports Debate Icon

As Around the Horn prepares for its final farewell on May 23, fans will have one last chance to enjoy the fast-paced, high-energy debates that made the show a fan favorite for over two decades. Whether ESPN will replace it with another debate-style show or move in a different direction remains uncertain.

For now, sports fans can only reflect on the legacy of Around the Horn and the impact it had on shaping modern sports commentary.