It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of John Brenkus, the visionary founder and host of “Sports Science.” Brenkus, a six-time Emmy Award winner recognized for his groundbreaking work on ESPN and Fox Sports Net, passed away on Saturday. His family shared the news on social media Sunday night, revealing he had been battling depression for several years.
This is a profound loss for the sports media world and anyone who admired Brenkus’s unique ability to blend athletics with analytical insight. His “Sports Science” program captivated audiences by breaking down the physics and physiology behind incredible athletic feats, making complex concepts accessible and engaging. Beyond his professional achievements, Brenkus’s personal struggle with depression, now brought to light by his family, underscores the importance of mental health awareness.
— John Brenkus (@johnbrenkus_) June 2, 2025
First gracing screens on Fox Sports Net in 2007, the groundbreaking show “Sport Science” quickly became a must-watch for sports enthusiasts and curious minds alike. After a successful run, the program made the jump to ESPN a few years later, where its popularity continued to soar. Eventually, the network recognized the immense value of the brand, acquiring it from its creator and charismatic host, John Brenkus. Brenkus himself was the face of “Sport Science” for over 1,800 segments, a testament to the show’s enduring appeal.
The show’s premise was elegantly simple: to unravel the mysteries behind the seemingly impossible feats witnessed in the world of sports. Whether it was dissecting the mechanics of a powerful slam dunk or, as a prime example, exploring “What makes Tyreek Hill the fastest player in the NFL?”, “Sport Science” consistently delivered fascinating insights into the human athletic potential. It blended cutting-edge technology with expert analysis, making complex scientific principles accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
The sports media world is remembering John Brenkus, the visionary behind ESPN’s groundbreaking “Sport Science.” While the show’s segments were often short, they consistently delivered captivating and educational content, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Brenkus, who recently revived “Sport Science” on his own platform, openly shared his struggles with depression. In a poignant 2023 interview with Marcellus Wiley, he revealed a deeply personal story: his life was saved by his dog during a suicide attempt. This raw honesty resonated with many, highlighting the human side of a man dedicated to demystifying athletic feats.
Following the news of his passing on Sunday night, tributes poured in across social media from countless figures within the sports media landscape. Their heartfelt messages underscored Brenkus’s influence and the unique niche he carved out in sports broadcasting.
John Brenkus’s work on “Sport Science” went beyond mere entertainment; he made complex athletic principles accessible and engaging for a mass audience. His willingness to share his personal battles also reminded us that even those who illuminate the extraordinary can face profound challenges. He will be missed.
RIP @johnbrenkus_
🙏🏿❤️ pic.twitter.com/NprlQ9bvQy— Marcellus Wiley (@marcelluswiley) June 2, 2025
Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family 🙏🏾
The man who gave us the Emmy Winning Sports Science lost his battle with depression at the age of 53. pic.twitter.com/QSxjh0U4ub— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) June 2, 2025
