Updated 1h ago · Sports
Michael Wilbon Takes Leave from ESPN for Health Issues
Michael Wilbon is taking an indefinite leave from ESPN and ABC to address multiple health issues. He announced the decision Monday in a post on X.
- 25 years: how long Wilbon has co-hosted PTI with Tony Kornheiser.
- Oct. 26 was Wilbon's last PTI appearance.
- Wilbon said the issues are not related to alcohol or gambling.
- 2008 is when Wilbon had a heart attack.
Why it matters: Wilbon said he ignored warning signs that doctors and people close to him noticed in recent years. "Probably, I should have listened," he wrote.
- He will miss both PTI and his NBA studio analyst role.
- The hosts signed multiyear contracts in September 2025.
How 12 sources split on this story
Source landscape
Factuality
High
Mixed
Low
Strong LeftLeftLean LeftCenterLean RightRightStrong Right
Political Bias
Coverage by lean
12 sources · 12 articles · 42% Left coverage
Center coverage, 5 sources: The center frames it as a straight announcement, noting his PTI and NBA roles.
ESPN2hWilbon taking leave of absence from ESPN to address health issues - ESPNUSA Today4hMichael Wilbon taking leave from ESPN, PTI for 'multiple health issues'Newsweek2hBeloved ESPN Personality Takes Leave of Absence Amid Concerning Health NewsPennLive3hFans praying for ESPN star Michael Wilbon following major announcementThe Hill3hMichael Wilbon to take time away from ‘Pardon the Interruption’
Left coverage, 5 sources: The left frames it as a routine leave, centered on Wilbon's own description of health issues.
The Guardian2hLongtime host Michael Wilbon steps away from ESPN due to ‘health issues’Los Angeles Times1hMichael Wilbon taking leave of absence from ESPN's 'PTI,' NBA coverageCleveland.com3hFans praying for ESPN star Michael Wilbon following major announcementHollywood Reporter2hMichael Wilbon Takes Leave From ESPN for Health ReasonsMediaite2hESPN’s Michael Wilbon Stepping Away Due to ‘Worrisome’ Health Issues — Insists He’ll Return
Right coverage, 2 sources: The right frames it around concerning health news for a well-liked ESPN personality.
What’s next: ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said the network will welcome Wilbon back whenever he is ready.
- The Los Angeles Times expects guest hosts on PTI and other analysts covering NBA duties.
- What specific health issues is Wilbon facing?
- How long will his leave last?
View all