Longtime ESPN journalist and television personality John Saunders has passed away. He was 61.
Saunders had been with ESPN since 1986 and was one of the network’s most recognizable on-air faces. There has been no word yet on what caused his death.
“John was an extraordinary talent and his friendly, informative style has been a warm welcome to sports fans for decades,” ESPN president John Skipper said in a statement. “His wide range of accomplishments across numerous sports and championship events is among the most impressive this industry has ever seen. More importantly, John was a beloved and devoted family man who cared deeply about people and causes, as evidenced by his long-standing efforts as a passionate board member for The V Foundation for Cancer Research.
“He was one of the most significant and influential members of the ESPN family, as a colleague and mentor, and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this extremely difficult time.”
Others from the sports media industry shared some of their thoughts on Saunders after learning of his passing.
Sickened and saddened to hear of loss of our colleague and friend, John Saunders. What a nice man. What a great man. pic.twitter.com/giwC23nSdM
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 10, 2016
Saunders was as nice/nicer than anyone I've worked with. Smooth on air…super cool to all crew off air.
— Paul Pabst (@PaulPabst) August 10, 2016
Just an awful, AWFUL day. John Saunders, a legend in the business and a friend to all, has passed away. No words. Truly, no words. #RIP
— Jim Trotter (@JimTrotter_NFL) August 10, 2016
So sad to hear abt John Saunders passing. Always heard from producers how talented & poised he was as a broadcaster & what a pro he was. RIP
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) August 10, 2016
The news of John Saunders' death could not be more crushing. We all loved him dearly. We grieve. We will miss him. Can't replace the man.
— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) August 10, 2016
