Sports TV trailblazer Linda Cohn retiring from ESPN after record-setting career

June 22, 2026 - 18:28

Linda Cohn, a pioneering figure in sports television, is retiring from ESPN after a record-setting career. Over her decades-long tenure, Cohn appeared in more episodes of "SportsCenter" than any other anchor in the network's history, a testament to her endurance and influence. She joined ESPN in 1992, becoming one of the first women to anchor the flagship highlight show full-time, and quickly broke barriers in a male-dominated field. Her calm, authoritative presence and deep knowledge of sports earned her a loyal following, and she became a familiar face for millions of viewers. Cohn's career spanned over 30 years, during which she covered major events from the NFL to the NBA, and she was known for her ability to handle breaking news with poise. Her departure marks the end of an era for ESPN, as she was not just a host but a trailblazer who inspired a generation of female sportscasters. While the network has not announced a specific date for her final broadcast, Cohn's legacy as a steady hand in sports journalism is secure. She leaves behind a body of work that redefined what was possible for women in sports media, and her impact will be felt long after her last sign-off.