ESPN commentator Michael Wilbon takes leave for health issues

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 2 Nov, 19:44 · Archive

Michael Wilbon is stepping back from ESPN's 'Pardon the Interruption' to address multiple health issues.

Michael Wilbon has announced a leave of absence from ESPN's 'Pardon the Interruption' to address what he described as 'multiple health issues'. Wilbon, who is 67 and turns 68 later this month, posted on X that he is taking a break but hopes it will not be extended. He noted that people in his personal life noticed 'worrisome signs' in recent years that he largely ignored, and clarified the issues are not alcohol or gambling-related.

Wilbon declined to provide details about his health concerns but expressed optimism about his recovery. 'I have no idea how exactly this part of my journey will wind up,' he wrote. 'The goal is to come out of it feeling much better than I do now and ready to return to sparring with Tony.'

Wilbon's last appearance on the show was on 26 October. He has been co-hosting 'Pardon the Interruption' with Tony Kornheiser for the past 25 years. The two became colleagues at the Washington Post in the 1980s and the show has been credited with revolutionising television's sports debate format. Wilbon is also featured on ESPN's NBA coverage.

How it is being reported

• Longtime journalist and ESPN commentator Michael Wilbon is taking a leave of absenceMichael Wilbon is taking a break from ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption" because of health issues.Clickorlando · 2 Nov, 19:11
• Longtime journalist and ESPN commentator Michael Wilbon is taking a leave of absenceMichael Wilbon is taking a break from ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption" because of health issues.News4Jax · 2 Nov, 19:11

In this story: Michael Wilbon · Tony Kornheiser · ESPN · Washington Post

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