SportsCenter host Neil Everett, 61, quits ESPN after ‘declining a pay cut’

Longtime SportsCenter host Neil Everett is leaving ESPN after 23 years with the cable sports network. The 61-year-old confirmed the news to Front Office Sports, saying: “Bartender… last call.”

In addition to several side projects, the Portland native told FOS that he plans to expand his existing role with the NBA’s Trail Blazers and also has several side projects: “ESPN has changed my life, but now it’s time for me to change my life change.” life. Time to write a new chapter.’

As reported by FOS, Everett was offered to stay at ESPN on a reduced salary, but declined the offer. Another ESPN veteran, Kenny Mayne, took a similar path in 2021.

Recently, ESPN decided to part ways with NHL analyst and former Chicago Blackhawks star Chris Chelios, and more on-air talent is expected to be laid off due to widespread layoffs within Disney.

ESPN is cutting salaries as part of Disney CEO Bob Iger’s effort to slash 7,000 jobs and $5.5 billion. Meanwhile, ESPN just signed YouTube host Pat McAfee for a reported $85 million over the next five years.

Everett’s longtime co-host Stan Verrett recalled the change on Twitter.

“I started at espn in 2000, a few months after Neil Everett. We came to Sportscenter from LA in 2009. For 14 years he was the best teammate I could imagine. Selfless, caring, generous and a professional. He’s moving on now, but we’re brothers for life. That will never change.’

Everett was a favorite in the popular This Is SportsCenter ad campaign and is known for joking his way through highlights.

Before ESPN, Everett worked in Hawaii, which is why he uses “aloha” a lot.

Everett has worked with the Trail Blazers for two years.