John Brenkus, the Emmy-winning creator and host of ESPN’s “Sport Science,” has tragically died, according to his family.
Brenkus passed away at age 54, a post from his official X account confirmed.
While no official cause of death was revealed, the statement said Brenkus died following a long, private battle with depression.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” the message read on X.
“John, co-founder of Base Productions, founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the 6-time Emmy Award-winning ‘Sport Science,’ had been battling depression.
“John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025.
“His heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.”
— John Brenkus (@johnbrenkus_) June 2, 2025
Members of the NFL and sports media community paid tribute to Brenkus in the wake of Sunday’s tragic news.
“This is incredibly sad. John was so good at what he did. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, John,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter penned Monday on X.
This is incredibly sad. John was so good at what he did. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, John.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 2, 2025
“Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family,” former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III wrote Sunday on X.
Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family 🙏🏾
The man who gave us the Emmy Winning Sports Science lost his battle with depression at the age of 53. pic.twitter.com/QSxjh0U4ub— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) June 2, 2025
Former ESPN contributor Kristi Dosh described Sport Science as “an incredible show,” and said she “never heard anything but good things about him.”
Marcellus Wiley, who once hosted Brenkus on his show, posted simply:
“RIP @johnbrenkus_.”
Brenkus was a pioneer in sports broadcasting, using data, physics, and innovation to break down the feats of elite athletes.
He co-founded Base Productions and later launched Brinx.TV, continuing his push for innovation in sports media.
While the corporate media often shies away from tough conversations on mental health, Brenkus was unafraid to share his own struggles.
In a 2023 interview, he openly recounted a moment when he came close to ending his life, only to be saved by reaching out to his mother and, remarkably, his loyal dog.
“I am mentally lost,” Brenkus said in the raw, powerful conversation.
“I went through a battle, I mean, I’m telling you, a battle, to get out of it.”
Sadly, that battle has now ended.
But his courage in sharing his pain stands as a wake-up call: we need to do more to support mental wellness, especially among high-achievers and men, groups too often left behind in the mental health conversation.
Brenkus leaves behind a legacy of innovation, authenticity, and vulnerability — proof that even the strongest among us face invisible battles.
May his life serve as inspiration, and his story a reminder: if you’re struggling, reach out. You’re not alone.
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