ESPN's Michael Wilbon Takes Indefinite Leave From 'PTI' and NBA Coverage Over Health Issues

Michael Wilbon, co-host of ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption" (PTI), announced Monday on X that he is taking an indefinite leave of absence from his PTI and NBA duties at ESPN and ABC because of multiple health issues. Wilbon, who turns 68 later this month, called it a trip to the injured list, said it is not retirement, and hopes it will not be long. He did not specify his conditions but said they are not related to alcohol or gambling. He said people close to him, including co-host Tony Kornheiser, saw worrisome signs in recent years that he largely ignored. On Kornheiser's podcast, Wilbon said he missed last week's shows because he felt exhausted, and that he is diabetic and years of ignored problems and frequent overnight flights caught up with him. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro said Wilbon and his family have the network's full support. Wilbon and Kornheiser, both former Washington Post writers, have hosted PTI since 2001, and the show marked its 25th anniversary in October.

Fox News and the Washington Times, on the right, lead with the "indefinite" nature of the leave. Fox's headline names both ESPN and PTI, quotes Wilbon's line that this is not retirement, notes he did not specify his issues, recalls his earlier comments about managing diabetes, and says he co-hosted from Arizona last Monday before being absent. Its page also carries an OutKick tribute and unrelated sports teasers. The Washington Times highlights his past as a Washington Post columnist. The Guardian, on the left, leads with "health issues" and adds his age, the point that alcohol and gambling are not involved, the 25th anniversary and his friendship with Kornheiser. It gives 26 October as his last PTI appearance, while Fox describes an appearance the following Monday. All outlets agree on the leave and Wilbon's own words. The Hollywood Reporter, among alternative sources, distinctly adds the diabetes remarks and Pitaro's statement.