ESPN’s “Around the Horn” Airs Its Final Episode

The long-running ESPN show “Around the Horn” is set to air its last episode, which marks the end of nearly two decades on the air. Jay Mariotti, who was a fixture on the panel until his domestic violence arrest in 2010, recently stated that the show is being canceled, and it seems he was caught off guard by the news.

Interestingly, not everyone agrees on the reasons for the show’s cancellation. Panelist Sara Spain expressed some skepticism about the decision, suggesting that the network’s rationale is not entirely clear.

“It’s baffling—this format keeps the door open for fresh voices and allows for a diverse representation,” Spain remarked in an interview, indicating that the cancellation feels like a step backward in terms of inclusivity.

Tony Leary, a staple as the host for many years, shared his disbelief as well, querying, “Does it really come down to a handful of topics over such a long time?” He emphasized that they tackled complex subjects throughout their run.

In one of the recent episodes, Kate Fagan made a notable appearance, declaring herself the winner alongside Jemel Hill, another former panelist who had been off the show since being let go in 2018 for a critical post about Donald Trump. Fagan’s closing remarks stirred an emotional appeal for trans youth in sports, emphasizing the joy and sense of community that sports bring.

Fagan noted, “What you remember most is that exhilarating feeling with your teammates, those moments of high fives and belonging.” She passionately argued that “trans kids deserve to play sports just like anyone else.” Her closing monologue, reflective and full of conviction, underscored the importance of inclusivity in athletics.

In the discussions surrounding the show’s end, Mariotti has also reflected on its trajectory, stating that he felt the show lost its audience before he left, and he expressed his frustrations about the shifts in the panel’s dynamic over time.

The departure of “Around the Horn” leaves a noteworthy gap in ESPN’s lineup, and it’s clear that its absence will be felt by many who tuned in to the lively debates and discussions for so many years.