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John Brenkus, the Emmy-winning creator and host of Sport Science, died on May 31, 2025, at the age of 54. His passing was confirmed through a statement shared on his official X account, citing a prolonged struggle with depression. The announcement requested privacy and urged those grappling with mental health issues to seek help.
Brenkus revolutionized sports television. With Sport Science, which premiered in 2007 on Fox Sports before moving to ESPN, he merged athleticism with physics and human biology, captivating audiences with data-driven breakdowns of elite performance. ESPN described the show as one that explored "sports' biggest myths and mysteries using cutting-edge technology." Under his leadership, the program earned six Emmy Awards and a lasting cultural footprint.
After Sport Science was sold, Brenkus publicly acknowledged falling into what he described as a "very deep depression." In a vulnerable conversation with former NFL player Marcellus Wiley, he recounted one of his darkest moments—being on the brink of suicide until his dog, Zeppelin, interrupted him. "That moment snapped me out," Brenkus said. "I called my mom and told her, 'There's something wrong with me. I am mentally lost.'"
He sought professional help, consulting six different psychiatrists and psychologists. Although he fought hard for recovery, his mental health challenges persisted. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 8.3 million U.S. adults had at least one major depressive episode with severe impairment in 2022—a stark reminder of the widespread nature of the illness.
Brenkus also co-founded BASE Productions and later launched Brinx.TV, a digital sports platform. His innovative spirit was acknowledged in a tribute by ESPN, which called him "an innovator, entertainer, and educator." Wiley, his colleague at Brinx.TV, shared a succinct farewell: "RIP @johnbrenkus_ 🙏🏿❤️."
In his final years, Brenkus continued to advocate for mental health transparency, often sharing his experiences in interviews. His openness resonated with many, offering solace and awareness to those facing similar struggles.
His family and friends, in mourning, emphasized a broader message: "Encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help." Brenkus' legacy will not only be etched in sports science but also in his courage to speak openly about mental illness—a battle too often fought in silence.
