John Brenkus, ‘Sport Science’ Host, Dies by Suicide at 54

John Brenkus, the Emmy Award-winning host and co-creator of Sport Science, passed away on May 31, 2025, at the age of 54.

The Virginia Department of Health’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed his death as a suicide. The news was publicly announced on June 1 via a statement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account and the Brinx.TV website.

A Pioneer in Sports Entertainment

Brenkus was renowned for merging science and sports through his groundbreaking show Sport Science. The show debuted on Fox Sports in 2007 before moving to ESPN. The program utilized advanced technology to dissect the mechanics behind athletic performance, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. Throughout the show, Brenkus hosted nearly 1,800 segments, exploring the physics and physiology of various sports.

Beyond Sport Science, Brenkus co-founded BASE Productions and later established Brinx.TV, a digital platform dedicated to sports and entertainment content. His innovative approach to storytelling earned him six Emmy Awards and solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in sports media.

Open Dialogue on Mental Health

In previous interviews, Brenkus candidly discussed his struggles with depression, particularly following the sale of Sport Science to ESPN. He recounted a period of deep despair, during which he contemplated suicide. In a 2023 episode of Never Shut Up with Marcellus Wiley, Brenkus shared that his dog, Zeppelin, intervened during one of his darkest moments, prompting him to seek help. He subsequently consulted multiple mental health professionals and emphasized the importance of addressing mental health issues openly.

In the statement announcing his death, his family acknowledged his battle with depression, stating, “John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025.” They requested privacy and encouraged anyone struggling with depression to seek support.

Tributes and Legacy for John Brenkus

Following the announcement, tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. ESPN honored John Brenkus on SportsCenter, describing him as an “innovator, entertainer, and educator” who would be “missed by many.” Former NFL star and Brinx.TV colleague Marcellus Wiley expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, “RIP @johnbrenkus_🙏🏿❤️.”

Brenkus’s contributions to sports media have left an indelible mark, inspiring a generation to appreciate the intersection of science and athletics. His commitment to demystifying complex concepts and his openness about mental health challenges continue to resonate with audiences

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