Former ESPN host and best-selling author John Brenkus has died following a fight with depression. He was just 54.
He was the creator and host of the popular ‘Sport Science’ show, which won multiple Emmy awards, and also appeared on Fox Sports Net. His death was announced on Sunday night.
‘It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,’ a statement read.
‘John, co-founder of Base Productions, Founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the six-time Emmy award-winning “Science,” had been battling depression.
‘John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31, 2025. His heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.’
News of his death sparked an outpouring of grief from across the sports world. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III was among those to pay tribute on social media.
Former ESPN personality and author John Brenkus has died following a fight with depression
‘Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family,’ he wrote on X. ‘The man who gave us the Emmy Winning Sports Science lost his battle with depression.’
Former defensive end Marcellus Wiley, who was partner of Brenkus on his Brinx.TV streaming platform, wrote ‘RIP John Brenkus’ alongside a prayer emoji.
Back in January 2023, during an interview with Wiley, Brenkus opened up on his mental health struggles. ‘I fell into a very deep depression,’ he said.
‘I spiraled into a deep, deep depression and I was flat-out suicidal.’ Brenkus revealed that his dog saved his life.
‘(He) came to my rescue… and in my suicidal funk, I was like: “What am I doing?” I literally picked up my phone, called my mom and said: “There’s something wrong with me. I am mentally lost.”‘
Brenkus then detailed his ‘battle’ which involved seeing multiple different psychologists and psychiatrists in search ‘answers’.
