Ex-ESPN and Fox Sports star John Brenkus dead after battle with depression

Former ESPN personality and best-selling author John Brenkus has died following a fight with depression.

He was the creator and host of 'Sport Science', who also won multiple Emmy awards while with Fox Sports Net. His death was announced on Sunday night.

'It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,' a statement read. 

'John, co-founder of Base Productions, Founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the six-time Emmy award-winning "Science," had been battling depression.

'John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31, 2025. His heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.'

News of his death sparked an outpouring of grief from across the sports world. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III was among those to pay tribute on social media.

'Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family,' he wrote on X. 'The man who gave us the Emmy Winning Sports Science lost his battle with depression.'

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