There have been many reasons suggested for why ESPN decided to shut down Grantland. From a desire to distance itself from Bill Simmons to the site’s financial profitability, the actual reasons for the move are probably complicated and full of multiple elements.
One report says part of the motivation is ESPN’s desire to get out of the pop culture business, which is something that was a strong element of Grantland.
“We’re getting out of the pop culture business,” an ESPN source told CNN’s Brian Stelter regarding the shutdown.
TV show recaps and other pop culture discussions were features on Grantland, which explains the comment. But many are wondering how honest that reason may be.
Consider this for instance:
Happy Friday pic.twitter.com/BCr6pbc6XY
— Dan Steinberg (@dcsportsbog) October 30, 2015
ESPN: "We're getting out of the pop culture business" pic.twitter.com/Lwuqxfno4U
— Chess Rockwell (@grabmybutstick) October 30, 2015
And what about the special “Star Wars” promotion ESPN ran during “Monday Night Football”? Or how about putting Lil Wayne on to pick football games or having a show featuring Snoop Dogg and son?
Unless they plan to make changes across the board in the future, that explanation does not seem to make too much sense.
The shutdown of Grantland is effective immediately, though some of the writers will continue on ESPN platforms.
