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Why was Suzy Kolber laid off? Fans of sports anchor claim 'big loss for ESPN' as 27-year stint ends

'Heartbreaking-but 27 years at ESPN was a good run,' tweeted Kolber

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The sports media world was left in shock as ESPN, the renowned sports network, initiated a wave of on-air talent layoffs on Friday, June 30. Among the affected was Suzy Kolber, who dedicated 27 years of her career to the company.

Kolber shared the heart-wrenching news on her Twitter account, expressing gratitude for her impressive 38-year career and highlighting the significance of her longevity as a woman in the business. “Today I join the many hard-working colleagues who have been laid off. Heartbreaking-but 27 years at ESPN was a good run. So grateful for a 38 yr career! Longevity for a woman in this business is something I’m especially proud of. Next step - a project that gives back.”

Why was Suzy Kolber laid off?

Kolber had been an integral part of ESPN's lineup, known for her roles as the host of 'Monday Night Countdown' and NFL Draft coverage. However, she was not the only familiar face to bid farewell to the network. ESPN also parted ways with prominent personalities such as Jeff Van Gundy, Max Kellerman, and Jalen Rose, among others.

ESPN's decision to let go of such recognizable names was part of a larger restructuring strategy by parent company Disney. The company had announced earlier in the year its intention to cut around 7,000 jobs, and this recent round of layoffs marked the third such episode, with previous rounds affecting behind-the-scenes workers.

'Suzy Kolber is a pioneer and a legend!'

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Kolber remains resilient and optimistic about her future. She hinted at her next project, one that would give back in some way. An overwhelming wave of best wishes flooded Suzy Kolber, with internet users claiming it as a significant loss for ESPN. One user tweeted, "Big loss for ESPN. You’ll land on your feet somewhere better!" Another added, "You’re an absolute legend." A third tweeted, "Suzy is an absolute icon and this is a huge loss for viewers. Wishing you the best on what’s next." “Suzy Kolber is a pioneer and a legend,” ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter tweeted. “She, like others laid off today, always will be remembered and missed.” “For everyone who covers pro football, @SuzyKolber has been a beacon, a standard of excellence year after year. Kudos, Suzy, for a job exceedingly and consistently well done," NBC football writer Peter King tweeted. "You have been a superstar with class every single day of your career. Congratulations on a great run Suzy," read a tweet.