Longtime NFL reporter Suzy Kolber was let go by ESPN Friday after nearly three decades at the network.
“Today I join the many hard-working colleagues who have been laid off. Heartbreaking-but 27 years at ESPN was a good run,” Kolber tweeted. “So grateful for a 38 yr career! Longevity for a woman in this business is something I’m especially proud of. Next step- a project that gives back.”
Kolber has hosted ESPN’s “Monday Night Countdown” pregame show before NFL games since 2015, a role she took over following the passing of previous host Stuart Scott. Kolber also worked as a sideline reporter for ESPN’s Monday Night Football broadcasts and contributed to the network’s NFL Draft coverage.
“Suzy Kolber is a pioneer and a legend. She, like others laid off today, always will be remembered and missed,” tweeted ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter.
In February, ESPN’s parent company Disney announced that it would be slashing 7,000 to save $5.5 billion in costs and make its streaming business profitable.
“Suzy embodies the spirit of the ESPN we were raised in. An ESPN legend. She made us all look great every day and represented the company with grace and professionalism always. A sad day,” said former ESPN producer Ashok Moore.
About 20 on-air ESPN talents were fired Friday as part of Disney’s cost-cutting measures. Talent to lose their jobs in addition to Kolber includes Jalen Rose, Jeff Van Gundy, Steve Young, Max Kellerman, Keyshawn Johnson, Matt Hasselbeck, Todd McShay, Ashley Brewer, and Joon Lee, among others.
