The journalism industry looks nothing like it did when Stan Verrett joined ESPN some 25 years ago.
Seeing that evolution in the industry factored into why the longtime “SportsCenter” host is saying goodbye to the World Wide Leader.
“Our business has changed greatly since I got in. It’s time that I changed along with it,” Verrett posted on X on Tuesday night. “Fortunately, there are some tremendous opportunities to do that, while remaining in my adopted hometown, Los Angeles, which I love. Stay tuned.”
Verrett and ESPN are splitting ways after a strong run together, with Front Office Sports reporting that the network is not renewing his contract when it expires this summer.
The 59-year-old began with ESPN and has served as a late-night host for the popular “SportsCenter” program, which has also changed over the two-plus decades he has been with the network.
He’s been in the 1 a.m. slot since 2009 and primarily worked with Neil Everett before he left the network in 2023.
It seems one factor in the decision comes from him being located in Los Angeles while the network is planning to stop hosting a “SportsCenter” show in Los Angeles and instead center in Bristol, Conn.
“My life is in Los Angeles is now,” Verrett posted on X on Wednesday after the report emerged.
“Nothing but gratitude for 25 years of living a dream at ESPN. I’m not retiring. Really excited about the future and some incredible opportunities. Stay tuned.”
Verrett indicated he’s received positive feedback about his pending departure.
“I am overwhelmed by all of your comments. It’s really touching,” he wrote on X. “Working in a studio doesn’t allow for interaction with viewers. But I’m flattered to know so many of you tuned in and enjoyed my work. That’s why I did it. Sincerely, thank you all.
ESPN praised Verrett for his contributions.
“We’re grateful for Stan’s many contributions and all he has brought to SportsCenter over the years,” ESPN EVP and executive editor or sports news and entertainment Dave Roberts told Front Office Sports in a statement. “We thank him and wish him continued success.”