Tim Cowlishaw Reflects on the End of ESPN’s ‘Around the Horn’ After Two Decades

Tim Cowlishaw Reflects on the End of ESPN’s ‘Around the Horn’ After Two Decades

ESPN’s long-running show ‘Around the Horn’ concluded its nearly 23-year airtime on Friday, marking the end of an era in sports journalism. The show, which became a staple for sports enthusiasts, provided a platform for spirited discussions on current topics within the sports world.

Tim Cowlishaw, a prominent figure on the show, used the occasion to express mixed feelings about his time at ESPN. In his closing remarks, he acknowledged the unique opportunity the network afforded him, which began unexpectedly in 2002.

“I want to thank ESPN for the opportunity that I did not seek and never expected to get back in 2002. I’d also like to say that while ESPN is currently gearing itself more toward hiring athletes instead of journalists,” Cowlishaw stated. His comments highlight a significant shift at the network, emphasizing a trend that favors former athletes over seasoned journalists to deliver sports commentary.

During its successful run, ‘Around the Horn’ featured a rotating panel of four journalists who explored sports topics and debated various angles of the stories. This format distinguished the show as one of the few remaining ESPN programs centered around journalistic discourse, rather than the perspectives of ex-players.

The Shift from Journalism to Athletics

As Cowlishaw pointed out, ESPN has increasingly favored personalities with athletic backgrounds. Many of the network’s highest-profile hosts, including Pat McAfee, Jason Kelce, Kendrick Perkins, and Ryan Clark, personify this shift. This evolution raises questions about the future of sports journalism within the organization.

“We had a wonderful 22 years on a show where I felt imposter syndrome every time I walked into this studio. I hope the people on the next show in this time slot have as much fun and bring as many smiles over the next 22 years. I’ll be counting,” Cowlishaw shared, reflecting on his experience and the camaraderie he built over the years.

What Lies Ahead for ESPN

While the conclusion of ‘Around the Horn’ signals a significant change, ESPN has yet to announce which program will replace it in the coveted 5 p.m. ET slot. Traditionally, this hour has featured a blend of ‘Pardon The Interruption’ and ‘Around the Horn,’ making it one of the few segments dedicated to media commentary rather than exclusively showcasing former athletes.

This departure from a more traditional journalism-based framework could alter the landscape of how sports news reaches viewers. As audiences crave analysis from experienced journalists, the impact of this transition may reverberate throughout the industry.

Looking Back at a Legacy

‘Around the Horn’ carved out a unique niche in the sports broadcasting world. The show’s format encouraged lively debates and offered viewers diverse opinions on a range of sports issues, reinforcing its popularity with audiences nationwide. Tim Cowlishaw, along with his fellow journalists, played a pivotal role in shaping that legacy.

As the sports broadcasting world continues to evolve, the decision to emphasize athletic background over journalistic experience may draw mixed reactions from viewers. Many fans still value the insights and analyses provided by seasoned sports commentators.

Whether ESPN’s new approach will resonate with its audience remains to be seen. The network’s commitment to innovation could attract new viewers while risking the loss of those who appreciate traditional sports journalism.

A New Era Begins

The conclusion of ‘Around the Horn’ leaves a void in the realm of sports commentary. Tim Cowlishaw’s reflections serve as a reminder of the rich history of the show and the contributions made by journalists aiming to provide insightful analysis of sports.

As sports fans look ahead to what comes next on ESPN, they will undoubtedly carry fond memories of the entertaining exchanges and informed discussions that characterized ‘Around the Horn.’ With new programs on the horizon, it remains to be seen if they can fill the gap left by this iconic show.

In this transitional period, fans of sports journalism and commentary will hope for a balance that incorporates both the perspectives of former athletes and the insights of experienced sports journalists. The challenge for ESPN lies in melding these viewpoints to create content that captivates viewers and maintains the high standards set by shows like ‘Around the Horn.’