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Michael Wilbon is taking a leave of absence from ESPN’s ‘Pardon the Interruption,’ NBA coverage

ESPN's Michael Wilbon announced he is taking an indefinite leave of absence from "Pardon the Interruption," which he has hosted with Tony Kornheiser for 25 years, and his NBA duties.

Published: Monday, 2 November 2026 at 8:30 PM
Michael Wilbon is taking a leave of absence from ESPN’s ‘Pardon the Interruption,’ NBA coverage
Key Things to Know
  • Michael Wilbon is taking an indefinite leave of absence from ESPN's 'Pardon the Interruption' and NBA coverage due to health issues.
  • Wilbon clarified that the time away is not retirement, describing the break as a temporary trip to the injured list.
  • The 67-year-old broadcaster cited ongoing struggles with health issues, including diabetes and extreme exhaustion.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Longtime sports journalist Michael Wilbon announced on Monday that he is taking an indefinite leave of absence from ESPN's "Pardon the Interruption" and his NBA coverage on ESPN and ABC. The 67-year-old broadcaster cited ongoing struggles with multiple health issues in recent months, emphasizing that the break is not a retirement and that he aims to return after focusing on his well-being.

Wilbon, who has co-hosted "PTI" alongside Tony Kornheiser since its debut in October 2001, mentioned on Kornheiser's podcast that diabetes is part of what he is dealing with amid deep exhaustion. ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro confirmed the network fully supports Wilbon's decision, with guest hosts expected to fill in during his absence.

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