Longtime ‘SportsCenter’ Anchor Neil Everett Is Out At ESPN
Longtime SportsCenter anchor Neil Everett will be leaving ESPN.
The news comes amid the final wave of The Walt Disney Company layoffs, a wave that has finally swallowed ESPN’s on-air talent.
A SportsCenter Icon
As one of ESPN’s most popular anchors for the last 23 years, Everett is perhaps best known for his partnership with Stan Verrett. The duo has anchored the late edition of SportsCenter since 2009.
That run makes them one of the longest-running “SportsCenter” duos ever.
Following the news of Everett’s departure, Everett tweeted a tribute to his longtime partner reading:
“I started at ESPN in 2000, a few months after Neil Everett. We joined up for ‘SportsCenter’ from LA in 2009. For 14 years, he was the best teammate I could imagine. Selfless, caring, generous, and a pro’s pro. He’s moving on now, but we are brothers for life. That’ll never change.”
Disney Layoffs Hit ESPN
While the exact reasons for Everett’s departure remain murky, it is believed that his exit is related to the latest round of Disney-mandated job cuts.
According to Front Office Sports, one inside source said that Everett was offered a new deal at a reduced salary, which he turned down.
Another source claimed that his contract was simply not renewed.
“ESPN Changed My Life”
As for what’s next for Everett, the Portland native will reportedly seek to increase his role with NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. The broadcaster currently hosts the team’s pregame and post-game shows.
“Bartender…last call,” Everett said in a statement to Front Office Sports.
He added: “ESPN changed my life, but now it’s time for me to change my life. Time to write a new chapter.”
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