Michael Wilbon takes ESPN leave to address health issues

Michael Wilbon is taking a leave of absence from ESPN to address health problems, stepping away from Pardon the Interruption and his other broadcasting work. The Associated Press, in a report published by the Guardian on Monday, said the longtime host announced his decision in a post on X on November 2.

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Wilbon, who turns 68 later this month, did not disclose a diagnosis or give a date for his return. He said he was dealing with more than one health issue and hoped his absence would be brief. His stated aim was to feel better and eventually resume his on-air exchanges with co-host Tony Kornheiser.

In explaining why he was taking time away, Wilbon said people close to him had noticed concerning signs over recent years that he had largely disregarded. He offered no further medical detail, although he specifically said the problems were unrelated to alcohol or gambling. His announcement left the course of his recovery uncertain rather than setting out a timetable.

According to the AP report, Wilbon last appeared on Pardon the Interruption on October 26. The programme recently marked its 25th anniversary, making his leave a break from a show he has helped present for a quarter of a century. Beyond PTI, Wilbon also contributes to ESPN's NBA coverage, another part of his work at the network.

The partnership at the centre of PTI grew from a friendship that began when Wilbon and Kornheiser were colleagues at the Washington Post in the 1980s. Their television programme is credited with helping reshape the sports-debate format. Wilbon's message looked back on the pleasure he had taken in hosting alongside Kornheiser throughout the show's 25-year run.

Wilbon also thanked his colleagues for supporting and encouraging him as he steps away to focus on his well-being. While he expressed a desire to return to the programme, he acknowledged that he did not know how this period would unfold. The announcement described a leave of absence, with his health now taking priority over his broadcasting schedule.