Longtime “SportsCenter” broadcaster Neil Everett is bidding farewell to ESPN after 23 years, as the network undergoes a downsizing of its on-air talent, according to a report from Front Office Sports.
The 61-year-old anchor has been one of ESPN’s most beloved personalities throughout his tenure.
While Everett’s departure marks the end of an era, his longtime partner Stan Verrett will remain in his role at the Los Angeles studio and will not be affected by the downsizing.
Confirming the news, Everett expressed his gratitude for the impact ESPN has had on his life, stating, “ESPN changed my life, but now it’s time for me to change my life. Time to write a new chapter.”
He metaphorically referred to his departure as “last call” while appreciating the opportunities the network has provided him.
As part of the downsizing efforts mandated by the Walt Disney Co., which owns ESPN, numerous on-air TV and radio talents have been affected. Neil Everett is the latest addition to the list of departures, joining the ranks of esteemed colleagues who have left the network.
Everett has become a fan favorite over the years. He has also showcased his acting skills in some of ESPN’s humorous “This is SportsCenter” commercials.
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While Everett’s exit marks a significant loss for ESPN, it will not impact the roles of Stan Verrett and Ashley Brewer at the network’s Los Angeles studio, according to FOS.
The downsizing measures implemented by ESPN are part of Disney’s broader cost-cutting strategy, driven by CEO Bob Iger, who aims to eliminate 7,000 jobs and reduce costs by $5.5 billion worldwide.
As ESPN navigates these changes, fans will undoubtedly miss the familiar presence of Neil Everett, whose unique style and charismatic delivery made him a staple of sports broadcasting.