Suzy Kolber has spoken for the first time about her departure from ESPN in June 2023, detailing the emotional impact of being part of a talent layoff and a subsequent conversation with an ESPN executive. Kolber, who hosted the network's "Monday Night Countdown" pregame show, was among approximately 20 on-air personalities released by the company.
During an appearance on the "Sports Media with Richard Deitsch" podcast, Kolber recalled a conversation with ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro, who informed her that her name was on a whiteboard, though he was uncertain of the final decision. "I remember that day sitting next to my daughter in the kitchen," Kolber said. "For years I’ve said ‘You never know.’ And I sat down next to her and I cried. And I said, ‘I think this is really happening.’"
Non-Disparagement Clause
The situation escalated the following week when Kolber received a call from then-ESPN executive Norby Williamson. Kolber stated she "lost it" when Williamson informed her that she could not make any disparaging remarks about the company, or ESPN could seek to recoup the final year of her contract. Kolber noted that she had previously agreed to a pay cut, believing it would secure her position through the end of her career.
Kolber had been with ESPN for 27 years, having been one of the first hires for ESPN 2 and involved in the launch of the X Games. She also played a role in "Monday Night Football's" move to ESPN. Kolber expressed surprise at not receiving a formal acknowledgment from the network for her long tenure.
Layoff Context
Sources suggest Kolber's departure was primarily driven by financial considerations, as the network aimed to reduce salary expenses. With ESPN preparing for its first Super Bowl broadcast, a transition at the "Monday Night Countdown" anchor position was anticipated. Scott Van Pelt was eventually named to replace Kolber. The network has a number of prominent NFL hosts, including Van Pelt, Mike Greenberg, and Laura Rutledge, leading to Kolber being the "odd person out" in the reshuffling.
Kolber has since launched a new interview series titled "The Originals" on the Scripps Sports Network, with the first episode airing on September 15.