John Brenkus, a television producer and the former host of the popular ESPN segment ‘Sport Science,’ has died at the age of 54, his family announced on social media. This tragic news has sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many expressing their condolences and reflecting on his contributions to the field. Brenkus was known for his engaging presence and insightful commentary on the science behind sports performance and injury prevention.
Brenkus had been open about his battle with depression, a struggle that led to his passing. His family shared a heartfelt statement on his social media page, stating that he ‘lost his fight’ with the illness at the end of the month. The statement emphasized the importance of seeking help for mental health issues and offered support to those in need. ‘It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus had passed away,’ the statement read. ‘John, co-founder of BASE Productions, founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the 6-time Emmy Award-winning ‘Sport Science,’ had been battling depression and lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31st, 2025. His heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time, and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.’
The death of Brenkus has resonated across social media, with many expressing their grief and honoring his legacy. His openness about mental health issues has sparked important conversations and raised awareness about the challenges faced by individuals dealing with depression. Brenkus had previously spoken to former NFL star Marcellus Wiley about his downward spiral after he sold ‘Sport Science’ to ESPN. The segment became a huge hit during ESPN’s ‘SportsCenter’ in the late 2000s and mid 2010s, shedding light on the impact of injuries on athletes’ bodies. His work extended to various networks, including A&E, Animal Planet, Discovery, FOX Sports Net, HBO, MTV, and others, showcasing his diverse contributions to the media landscape.
As the sports world mourns the loss of a beloved figure, the focus remains on the importance of mental health awareness and the need for continued support for those struggling with depression. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the impact he made in the field of sports science.