Tony Reali Reflects on Cancellation of ESPN’s Around the Horn

BRISTOL, Conn. — After more than two decades, ESPN’s long-running show Around the Horn is set to air its final episode on May 23, 2025. Host Tony Reali shared his feelings on the cancellation during an interview with Pablo Torre.

Reali received the news on the day he was scheduled to go on air. He described the timing as particularly challenging, especially as he prepared for career day at his son’s school, where his son wants to be a sportscaster. ‘This is what I mean, to show everybody this is life and you got to still do the job you got to perform,’ he said.

The decision to end the show came in December 2024, although Reali had sensed that the show’s days were numbered prior to the official announcement. He remained hopeful for months, believing that the team could prove the show’s worth to ESPN executives. ‘I operated for months thinking, “we’ll do good shows and we’ll change their mind,”’ he told Torre.

In response to the struggles of adapting to audience preferences, Reali was willing to embrace changes, including adding more interactive elements to the show. He recalled telling executives, ‘You want games? I can do games! You want me to bring streamers? I can bring streamers!’ However, he was advised to continue with the current format.

The cancellation has left many in the industry puzzled. David Roberts, who oversees ESPN’s studio shows, stated that ratings did not factor into the decision, explaining, ‘After 23 years, we’ve just made a determination that we have to evolve.’ This evolution reflects a broader trend at ESPN, which is pivoting towards digital platforms and more sensational programming.

Various theories have emerged around the cancellation, with some speculating that the show’s increasing focus on diversity did not resonate with its core audience. Former panelist Jay Mariotti suggested that a shift towards more socially conscious topics may have alienated viewers looking for traditional sports commentary.

As Around the Horn prepares for its final episode, the legacy of the show remains impactful. It helped shift the landscape for sports journalism on television, setting a precedent for how sports discussions could include more personal and contemporary topics. Reali’s stewardship has fostered a space for professional journalists to engage with fans beyond just game recaps. In closing, Reali expressed his continued commitment to nuanced discussions in sports media, stating, ‘If the Special Olympics is too political for you, I can live with that.’