Michael Wilbon, a well-known figure at ESPN for over twenty years, is taking a break from the network due to health concerns. On Monday, the 67-year-old shared on X, which was previously Twitter, that he is going on the “injured list” because of “multiple health issues” he has faced recently. His announcement came after fans expressed concern about his absence from Pardon the Interruption (PTI), a show he has co-hosted with Tony Kornheiser since 2001. Wilbon has also not appeared on ESPN’s NBA coverage or SportsCenter, where he frequently provided his insights.
Wilbon clarified that he is not retiring but will be away for an indefinite period. He mentioned that he should have heeded the advice of medical professionals and friends, including Kornheiser, who noticed troubling signs in recent years that suggested he should have taken a break sooner. While he did not detail his specific health issues, he emphasized that his leave from ESPN is not connected to rumors about alcohol use or gambling. He reflected on how much he has enjoyed working with Kornheiser over the past 25 years and expressed hope for a better outcome in his health journey.
In addition, Wilbon, who has diabetes and suffered a heart attack in 2008, discussed his condition during a recent appearance on Kornheiser’s podcast. He stated that diabetes is part of his current health challenges but not the only issue he is facing. The duo of Kornheiser and Wilbon has received many Sports Emmy Awards as part of PTI. What are your thoughts on Wilbon’s health update?
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Source: popculture.com, by Anthony Farris