Michael Wilbon Steps Away From ESPN Citing Multiple Health Issues
The 68-year-old commentator, who co-hosts 'Pardon the Interruption' with Tony Kornheiser, said he will focus on his well-being after ignoring worrisome signs for years.
By Lauren Bello ·
Michael Wilbon announced on Monday that he is taking a leave of absence from ESPN due to multiple health issues. The longtime commentator and co-host of 'Pardon the Interruption' said he is turning 68 later this month and described his time away as a trip to the injured list.
Wilbon stated that he hopes the break is not an extended one. He noted that people in his personal life noticed worrisome signs in recent years that he largely ignored. The reporter clarified that the issues are not related to alcohol or gambling.
The 68-year-old journalist said he has no idea how this part of his journey will wind up. He added that his goal is to come out of the break feeling much better than he does now and to be ready to return to sparring with his co-host, Tony Kornheiser.
Wilbon’s last appearance on 'Pardon the Interruption' was on Oct. 26. The show recently celebrated its 25th anniversary and is credited with revolutionizing the sports debate format on television. The program is a byproduct of the friendship between Wilbon and Kornheiser, who became colleagues at the Washington Post in the 1980s.
In a post on X, Wilbon wrote that he has loved sparring and hosting the show with Kornheiser every day for the past 25 years. He expressed gratitude for the support and encouragement of his colleagues as he takes time to concentrate on his well-being.
