The sports world is mourning the loss of John Brenkus, the creator and host of ESPN’s groundbreaking show Sports Science, who passed away at the age of 54 on May 31, 2025.
Brenkus revolutionized the way fans understood athletic performance, blending cutting-edge science with world-class sports moments.
Brenkus launched Sports Science in 2007, originally airing on Fox Sports Net before moving to ESPN, where it became a staple of sports programming. The show used advanced technology, biomechanics, and physics to break down the most incredible feats in sports—from analyzing Tyreek Hill’s speed to explaining Steph Curry’s shooting mechanics.
Under Brenkus’ leadership, Sports Science won six Emmy Awards and produced over 1,800 segments, making complex athletic concepts accessible to millions of viewers. His ability to merge entertainment with education set a new standard for sports broadcasting.
Beyond his work on Sports Science, Brenkus was the co-founder of BASE Productions and the founder of Brinx.TV, platforms dedicated to sports and entertainment content. His passion for data-driven analysis influenced how athletes trained, how coaches strategized, and how fans appreciated the science behind the game.
Brenkus’ impact extended beyond television—his insights helped shape modern sports analytics, and his work inspired a new generation of sports scientists, analysts, and broadcasters.
In recent years, Brenkus was open about his struggles with depression, advocating for mental health awareness. His family confirmed that he had been battling the illness for years and encouraged others facing similar challenges to seek help. His honesty about mental health resonated deeply with fans and colleagues, shedding light on the importance of support and awareness.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or mental health challenges, help is available. You can reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, or call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) for support. Additional resources can be found here. You’re not alone—there are people who care and want to help.
In Germany, you can reach TelefonSeelsorge at 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222, which offers 24/7 confidential support.
