Linda Cohn, a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, has announced her impending retirement from ESPN, marking the end of a remarkable 34-year tenure with the network. The 66-year-old longtime anchor confirmed that she will officially depart on June 30, concluding her time as the longest-serving SportsCenter anchor in the station’s history.
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In a heartfelt video shared on her Instagram Stories, Cohn expressed her gratitude towards fans and supporters, revealing that she had spent the day overwhelmed with emotion. “I’ve had happy tears all day, every minute of this day,” she stated, highlighting how much the outpouring of support has meant to her. Cohn, who joined ESPN back in July 1992, hosted her inaugural SportsCenter episode shortly thereafter on July 11 the same year.
Reflecting on her illustrious career, Cohn shared that the relationships forged and the positive influence she may have had on the next generation of female sports media professionals stood out as her most treasured achievements. “When I look back, I have amazing memories of the shows I hosted, the games I reported on, the athletes I met, and the outstanding colleagues I got to work with,” she remarked in a statement provided by ESPN.
Cohn emphasised her identity as a fan at heart throughout her career, maintaining that this passion for sports has always informed her approach to broadcasting. “I’ve always said I was a fan first, and I’ve tried to keep that top of mind when I was doing SportsCenter or anything else,” she added.
One of the most significant sentiments that surfaced during her reflection was the pride she feels at having her career span long enough to witness young girls grow up watching SportsCenter, enter the industry, and find success within it. “If my journey helped make that path a little easier for them, then that’s the achievement I’ll cherish most,” Cohn concluded.
Throughout her years at ESPN, Cohn became synonymous with sports journalism, contributing as a host, reporter, commentator, writer, and play-by-play announcer. Her track record includes a role in the network’s hockey coverage, stemming from her background as a former collegiate ice hockey goalie at SUNY Oswego. The pinnacle of her achievements came in 2016 when she celebrated her 5,000th episode of SportsCenter, a milestone that has yet to be surpassed. Cohn later described this moment as one of her favourite memories, made even more special by a surprise visit from her children and calls from her favourite athletes.
In addition to her impressive milestones, Cohn fondly recalled unique experiences such as trying out as the emergency goalie for the Florida Panthers and the exhilarating nature of hosting SportsCenter following major sports events. “Hard to pick one, but there is nothing like hosting a SportsCenter following an incredible game or individual achievement in sports,” she said, acknowledging the adrenaline rush that she experienced during those broadcast moments.
ESPN’s President of Content, Burke Magnus, praised Cohn’s exceptional contribution to the network, stating, “Linda Cohn is a legend and a major part of the history of ESPN. She has brought enthusiasm, personality, and her love of sports to our audience for more than 30 years.”
Before her illustrious career at ESPN, Cohn began her journey in broadcasting in 1981 as a radio news anchor, writer, and sports reporter on Long Island. She was notably the first full-time female sports anchor on a national radio network before making the transition to television.
In recognition of her significant contributions to sports journalism, Cohn was inducted into the National Sports Media Association Hall of Fame in 2017. As her departure date approaches, her final SportsCenter appearances are scheduled for June 26, when celebrations will take place in ESPN’s Connecticut studios to honour her illustrious career.
Looking ahead, Cohn expressed her excitement for the future, indicating that while she is wrapping up a significant chapter of her life, she is eager to embrace new opportunities. “I’m grateful for every moment I had at ESPN, but I’m inspired and energised by the opportunities that lie ahead,” she remarked, affirming that her story is still very much in progress.