Linda Cohn, a trailblazing figure in sports media, is retiring from ESPN on June 30 after an illustrious 34-year career. She is recognized for hosting more episodes of "SportsCenter" than anyone else, exceeding 5,500 editions. Cohn will make her final appearances on Friday, June 26, across the 6 p.m., 10 p.m., and 11 p.m. ET "SportsCenter" broadcasts, and will also cover the NHL draft with long-time co-host John Buccigross.
Cohn began her career in broadcasting in 1981 at WALK-AM/FM in Patchogue, New York, starting as a news anchor, writer, and sports reporter. She joined ESPN in Bristol in 1992, hosting her first "SportsCenter" on July 11, 1992. In 2018, she relocated to Los Angeles to anchor late-night "SportsCenter" editions until the show's production moved back to Bristol in 2025. Her 5,000th appearance on the show was celebrated in 2016, and she was inducted into the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame in 2017.
ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus lauded Cohn as a "legend and a major part of the history of ESPN," crediting her with bringing enthusiasm, personality, and a deep love of sports to the audience for over three decades. Cohn expressed immense pride in inspiring women in sports media, stating that her greatest achievement is seeing younger women enter and succeed in the business after watching her on "SportsCenter." She hopes her journey made the path easier for them.
While Cohn never had her own dedicated "SportsCenter" or a star tandem like some of her male counterparts, her reliable presence, factual reporting, and lighthearted commentary made her synonymous with the network's most famous program. Many in sports media have paid tribute to her impact as a trailblazer. Although she is grateful for her time at ESPN, Cohn stated that her story is "still being written," hinting at future endeavors beyond retirement.
ESPN and Cohn were reportedly unable to agree on a suitable role for her moving forward after her contract expires, leading to her decision to retire. Despite this, her legacy as ESPN's longest-tenured "SportsCenter" anchor and a pioneer for women in sports broadcasting is firmly established.
