After more than two decades of lively sports debates, bold opinions, and buzzer-beating arguments, ESPN’s Around the Horn will air its final episode in 2025. For 23 years, the show has been a staple of sports media, bringing together a diverse panel of journalists to discuss, argue, and occasionally roast one another over the biggest headlines in sports. Its departure marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most innovative and influential sports programs in television history.

In this retrospective, we’ll explore the history, impact, and cultural significance of Around the Horn, as well as the reasons behind its conclusion and what might come next for sports debate programming.

The History of Around the Horn

Around the Horn debuted on ESPN on November 4, 2002, as a fresh take on sports discussion shows. Created by Bill Wolff, the program differentiated itself by using a competitive format where panelists earned points based on their arguments, determined by the show’s host. The fast-paced, dynamic nature of the show quickly caught on, with viewers enjoying the mix of insightful analysis and playful banter.

Early Years

The original host, Max Kellerman, helped shape the tone of the show with his sharp wit and charismatic delivery. After Kellerman’s departure in 2004, Tony Reali took over as host, transforming the show into what it became in its prime. Reali’s mix of humor, encyclopedic sports knowledge, and ability to control the chaos of multiple outspoken panelists made him synonymous with Around the Horn.

Innovative Format

The point-scoring system was both a gimmick and a defining feature of the show. It wasn’t about who was right or wrong; it was about who could make the most compelling or entertaining case. This element of competition—combined with the final “Face Time” segment for the day’s winner—kept the show engaging and unpredictable.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

For many fans, Around the Horn wasn’t just a sports show—it was a daily ritual. It introduced audiences to a rotating cast of sportswriters and columnists, giving these journalists a platform to become media personalities in their own right. Names like Woody Paige, Bill Plaschke, Jackie MacMullan, and J.A. Adande became familiar to millions, each bringing unique perspectives and personalities to the table.

Diversity in Sports Media

One of the show’s lasting contributions was its effort to bring diverse voices into sports media. Over the years, the panel included a mix of men and women, journalists from different ethnic backgrounds, and representatives of various regions and cities. This diversity gave the show a broader appeal and reflected the multifaceted nature of sports fandom.

Influence on Debate Shows

Around the Horn helped pave the way for the explosion of debate-focused sports programming. While shows like Pardon the Interruption (PTI) predated it, Around the Horn proved that a competitive, fast-paced format could succeed alongside traditional sports analysis. It influenced subsequent shows like First Take and Speak for Yourself, which took the concept of heated sports debates to new levels.

Why Is Around the Horn Ending?

The announcement of the show’s conclusion comes amid broader changes at ESPN and in the media landscape. The reasons behind the decision to end Around the Horn likely include a mix of shifting viewer habits, evolving media trends, and internal restructuring.

Declining Viewership

In recent years, traditional cable viewership has declined as audiences have gravitated toward streaming services and social media for sports content. Shows like Around the Horn, which rely on scheduled programming, have struggled to maintain their once-dominant audience numbers in an on-demand world.

Changing Media Priorities

ESPN, like many networks, has faced financial pressures and the need to adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape. The network has prioritized live sports coverage, streaming, and digital platforms, leaving less room for traditional talk shows.

A Natural Conclusion

After 23 years, the decision to end Around the Horn may also reflect a desire to go out on a high note. The show’s longevity is a testament to its success, but it’s possible the producers and talent felt it was time to move on to new projects and opportunities.

What Comes Next for Sports Debate Programming?

The end of Around the Horn raises questions about the future of sports debate shows. While the genre remains popular, it is evolving to meet the demands of modern audiences.

The Rise of Digital Platforms

Many sports personalities now engage with fans directly through podcasts, YouTube channels, and social media platforms. These mediums allow for more flexibility, longer-form discussions, and direct interaction with audiences.

Interactive Formats

The competitive format of Around the Horn could inspire new interactive programming. Imagine a show where fans can participate in real time, voting on who made the best arguments or even joining the debate themselves.

The Role of AI and Technology

With advancements in AI and data analytics, future sports debate shows might incorporate more advanced tools for analyzing arguments, presenting data, or even featuring AI-generated insights. While this wouldn’t replace human debate, it could add an exciting layer of depth to discussions.

The Personal Touch: Tony Reali’s Legacy

It’s impossible to talk about Around the Horn without acknowledging the role of Tony Reali. As the face of the show for nearly two decades, Reali brought a warmth and intelligence that resonated with fans. Beyond his hosting duties, he became an advocate for mental health awareness, using his platform to discuss important issues outside of sports.

Reali’s next move will undoubtedly be one to watch. Whether he continues in sports media, transitions to another type of programming, or takes on a behind-the-scenes role, his impact on Around the Horn and sports television as a whole is undeniable.

Fans React: A Bittersweet Goodbye

The news of Around the Horn ending has elicited a mix of emotions from fans. While many are sad to see the show go, there’s also a sense of gratitude for the years of entertainment, insight, and laughter it provided. Social media is already flooded with nostalgic posts, favorite moments, and tributes to the panelists who made the show special.

Impression

As Around the Horn prepares to air its final episode in 2025, it leaves behind a legacy of innovation, entertainment, and impact. The show not only redefined sports debate but also created a platform for journalists to connect with audiences in a way that felt personal and relatable.

While its departure is bittersweet, Around the Horn will be remembered as a groundbreaking program that changed the landscape of sports media. For fans, it’s a reminder to celebrate the moments that made the show special—those rapid-fire debates, clever quips, and buzzer-beater arguments that kept us coming back for more.

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