John Anderson has been a staple of ESPN’s “SportsCenter” since 1999, but he recently announced that he will be retiring from the show when his contract expires in June. While he plans to continue doing various projects for the network, he cited changes in the operation of “SportsCenter” as a factor in his decision to move on. Anderson mentioned that he wants to be able to continue doing the best shows he can, and he believes that after nearly 26 years, he may not have the stamina to keep up with the demands of the show.
Anderson was hired by ESPN from KPHO-TV in Phoenix, Arizona, and has been a prominent figure on the network ever since. He currently anchors the 11 p.m. ET edition of “SportsCenter” and covers various track and field events, such as the Boston Marathon and New York Marathon. In addition to his work on “SportsCenter,” Anderson also served as a host for the ABC game show “Wipeout” from 2008 to 2014. His departure marks the third longtime host to sign off from the show within the past year, following Neil Everett and Sage Steele.
In his announcement, Anderson expressed excitement about being able to focus on other projects, such as continuing to cover track and field events like the Boston Marathon and the New York Marathon. While he is stepping away from his role on “SportsCenter,” he will still be involved in various sports-related projects for ESPN. Anderson’s departure comes at a time of change for the show, as new hosts and formats have been introduced in recent years, signaling a shift in the operation of “SportsCenter.”
Throughout his tenure on “SportsCenter,” Anderson embodied the characteristics of a typical anchor with his snappy and knowledgeable dialogue. His departure marks the end of an era for the show, as he has been a key figure in its success for over two decades. Despite stepping away from his role as anchor, Anderson’s impact on “SportsCenter” and the world of sports broadcasting is undeniable, and his presence will surely be missed by fans and colleagues alike. As he prepares to retire from the show, Anderson leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
