John Brenkus, the six-time Emmy-winning host and co-creator of ESPN’s Sport Science, has died at the age of 54 following a battle with depression.
The news was confirmed through a message posted on his official social media accounts on Sunday, June 1.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” the statement read. “John, co-founder of Base Productions, founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the six-time Emmy Award-winning Sport Science, had been battling depression. John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025.”
His family and friends requested privacy and encouraged anyone struggling with depression to seek help.
He was known for his groundbreaking work on Sport Science, where he used advanced technology to explore the physics behind athletic performance — analyzing momentum, friction, gravity, and more to debunk myths and reveal hidden truths in sports.
Tributes have poured in from across the sports and media world. ESPN’s Adam Schefter expressed his condolences, writing, “This is incredibly sad. John was so good at what he did. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, John.” Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III also shared his grief, saying, “Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family.”
Kristi Dosh, a former ESPN contributor, reflected on Brenkus’ legacy, stating, “Sport Science was an incredible show, and I never heard anything but good things about him during my time at ESPN.”
In a 2023 interview with former NFL player Marcellus Wiley, Brenkus openly discussed his mental health struggles. He revealed how close he came to taking his own life before a pivotal moment — and a call to his mother — set him on the path to recovery. “I said,
‘There’s something wrong with me. I am mentally lost,’” he recalled. “I then went through a battle, I mean, I’m telling you, a battle, to get out of it.”
Marcellus Wiley also paid tribute to Brenkus, writing, “RIP @johnbrenkus_.”
John Brenkus leaves behind a powerful legacy of innovation, transparency, and impact in the sports and broadcasting world.
