Michael Wilbon is taking an indefinite leave of absence from ESPN due to “multiple health issues,” the legendary sports commentator announced in a statement Monday.
“This isn’t retirement, but it is a trip to the injured list. Hopefully not an extended one. Struggles with multiple health issues in recent months lead me to take an indefinite leave of absence from my PTI and NBA duties at ESPN and ABC,” Wilbon began.
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Team Wilbon coach Michael Wilbon during lineup introductions before the NBA All Star-Celebrity Game at Wintrust Arena on Feb. 14, 2020. (Quinn Harris/USA TODAY Sports)
“Probably, I should have listened to medical professionals and people closest to me, yep Kornheiser included, who saw worrisome signs in recent years that suggested I take time away earlier. But I didn’t.”
Wilbon did not specify which medical issues he is facing. He has previously spoken about managing diabetes and complications from the disease.
He co-hosted “PTI” from his home in Arizona last Monday but was absent for the rest of the week.
Most importantly, we want to send our best wishes to Michael Wilbon. Speaking personally, it has been an honor to get to know him professionally. OutKick has had the pleasure of interviewing Wilbon on several occasions.
He is one of the greatest sportswriters and commentators of this generation. And it’s not cliché to say he’s an even greater person.
One would be hard-pressed to find someone in this industry more universally respected by his peers, viewers, readers, and contemporaries.
ESPN host Michael Wilbon has worked for ESPN for years. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Scott Van Pelt provided OutKick a comment on Wilbon’s importance to the industry as both a professional and a person:
“I grew up reading him in the Post, never imagined we’d be colleagues and friends. Because he’s old school in the best of ways, he’d roll his eyes at the idea he’s revered by all of us, but he is. I hope he sees the outpouring and allows it to land in a way that serves as fuel to feel a bit better,” Van Pelt said.
Other sports media commentators wished Wilbon well Monday, referencing his influence on them:
Clay Travis: “Get well. One of the all time greats at writing and TV.”
Josh Pate: “I always learn something when Michael Wilbon talks…here’s a big get well soon to someone I hope is around for years to come 🫡.”
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John Buccigross: “The charm and warmth of this man is astounding. There’s nothing quite like him. Rest your mind and bones Mr. Wilbon.”
Dan Wetzel: “Best of health to Michael Wilbon, whose talent, intelligence and work ethic have made him one of the greatest sports columnists AND sports commentators of all time.”
Michael Wilbon talks to the media during Game 1 of the 2023 NBA Finals on June 1, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (NBAE via Getty Images)
ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro also issued a statement in support of Wilbon.
“Michael and his family have ESPN’s full support as he takes time away to focus on his health and well-being. He’s an important member of our ESPN team and widely respected by his peers, sports fans and so many others throughout our industry.
“We are here for Michael every step of the way and look forward to welcoming him back whenever he is ready.”
Honestly, knowing Wilbon just a little and having followed his career, he would despise how long we have already spent writing about his announcement. He will be back.
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Toss Up: Will Wilbon be back before or after the average timeline is for someone dealing with these complications?
Well before.
