ESPN’s Wilbon taking leave of absence to address health issues

Michael Wilbon announced that he is taking a temporary break from his duties.

Longtime ESPN commentator and co‑host of “Pardon the Interruption” with Tony Kornheiser announced on Monday that he is taking a leave of absence due to several health concerns.

Wilbon, who will turn 68 later this month, posted on X that he is heading to the injured list and hopes the absence will be brief.

Although Wilbon, also appearing in ESPN’s NBA coverage, did not disclose full details of his condition, he revealed on Monday during his weekly appearance on Kornheiser’s podcast “The Tony Kornheiser Show” that he is diabetic, which is one component of his current health challenges.

Wilbon’s most recent appearance on “PTI”—which marked its 25th anniversary last month and is credited with reshaping the sports debate format—was on October 26.

Wilbon explained to Kornheiser, “I missed the show for a week because I was exhausted, and beyond that, I felt lifeless. This has been ongoing for some time.”

Wilbon emphasized that this is not a retirement and that he intends to return when his health permits, noting that his symptoms had become too significant to overlook.

He added, “I need to listen; there are issues that require my attention.”

The program stems partly from the longstanding friendship between Wilbon and Kornheiser, who first worked together at The Washington Post in the 1980s.

Wilbon expressed, “I have cherished sparring and hosting PTI with Tony each day for the past 25 years,” and thanked his colleagues for their support and encouragement as he focuses on his well‑being.

Source link