ESPN Announces the Final Episode of Around the Horn After 23 Years of Iconic Sports Debates

After more than two decades on the air, ESPN’s beloved sports debate show Around the Horn is set to air its final episode on May 23, 2025.

The show, which has been a fan favorite since its debut in November 2002, will conclude its historic run, marking the end of an era for sports enthusiasts who have tuned in to watch the fast-paced debates unfold.

A Look Back at Two Decades of Iconic Debates

Over the past 23 years, Around the Horn has seen nearly 5,000 episodes, with Tony Reali at the helm since 2004.

The show featured a rotating cast of panelists, including familiar names like Jemele Hill, Mina Kimes, and Bomani Jones. Panelists earned points and tried to avoid being muted while debating the hottest topics in sports.

Reali’s quick wit and sharp moderation were essential in guiding the chaotic conversations, making the show a go-to for sports fans looking for lively debates and insightful commentary.

Why Is the Show Ending?

In November, ESPN made the difficult decision to end Around the Horn. The announcement came as a surprise to many fans, as the show had become a staple of weekday sports programming, airing at 5 p.m. ET.

Going forward, ESPN will replace Around the Horn with a 30-minute edition of SportsCenter, which will take over that time slot during the summer.

A Tribute to the Show’s Legacy

ESPN’s executive David Roberts shared his thoughts on the show’s remarkable legacy, expressing gratitude for the show’s incredible run.

“Around the Horn has had a remarkable run of more than two decades,” Roberts said in a statement.

“That kind of longevity in media is incredibly rare, and we look forward to celebrating the show’s many accomplishments before the final sign-off in May.”

He also thanked Reali and the team behind the scenes, particularly the production team led by Erik Rydholm and Aaron Solomon, for their significant contributions to the show’s success.

As the final episode of Around the Horn approaches, fans will no doubt reflect on the many memorable moments and debates that have made the show a true standout in sports media.