John Brenkus, Emmy-winning ESPN 'Sport Science' host, died by suicide

John Brenkus, the host of “Sport Science” that aired on ESPN, died by suicide, TMZ reported on Tuesday, citing the Virginia Department of Health, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

His family announced Sunday that he had died following a battle with depression at 54 years old.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” his family said on X. “John, co-founder of Base Productions, founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the 6-time Emmy Award-winning ‘Sport Science,’ had been battling depression.

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

Brenkus was the founder of Brinx.TV and the co-founder of BASE Productions, the latter of which created the hit program “Sport Science,” which aired on Fox Sports Net and ESPN, winning six Sports Emmys.

The show delved into “sports’ biggest myths and mysteries by using cutting-edge technology to measure momentum, friction and the laws of gravity,” as per ESPN’s description.

Many sports media figures, particularly those at the Worldwide Leader, were devastated by the loss of what they described as a hard-working and genuine person.

John Brenkus hosts the Beyond Sport Global Awards on July 26, 2017 in New York City. Getty Images

“I’m so incredibly sad to learn of the passing of John Brenkus,” wrote former ESPN fantasy football guru Matthew Berry. “I did an episode of Sport Science back in the day and we remained friends. The ultimate professional, he was kind, encouraging, smart and inventive. This is awful. RIP John Brenkus.”

“This place is a better world with you in it, this place was a better place with John Brenkus in it,” Randy Scott said on “SportsCenter” on Monday.

“Brenkus was known for demonstrating scientific principles through sports during his segments and shows,” Riggs Cuff also said on ESPN’s flagship show. “Often having professional athletes participate alongside him.

John Brenkus died at 54. Penske Media via Getty Images

“John Brenkus was an innovator, an entertainer, and an educator. He will be missed by many. He was just 54 years old.”

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for free and confidential crisis counseling.

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