‘Around the Horn’ Ends 23-Year ESPN Run With Heartfelt Sign Off

After 23 years and over 4,900 episodes, longtime ESPN host Tony Reali bid farewell to the beloved sports debate series, “Around the Horn,” on Friday. The show, which featured a panel of prominent sports journalists engaging in lively discussions about teams, athletes, and sports issues, had become a staple of ESPN’s early evening lineup. Reali, who took over as host after working as a researcher and statistician for “Pardon the Interruption,” expressed his mixed feelings about the show’s cancellation in recent interviews.

In his final episode, Reali reflected on the impact that “Around the Horn” had on his life and the viewers who made the show a success for over two decades. He emphasized the importance of shared experiences and connections, both in sports and in life. As he bid farewell to the show and its loyal fans, Reali’s emotional speech touched on themes of growth, resilience, and the power of genuine human connection.

Throughout his tenure on the show, Reali became known for his scoring system, where writers earned points based on the strength of their arguments. He used his final moments on air to thank the fans for their support and to express his gratitude for the opportunity to grow and evolve alongside the show. Reali’s heartfelt farewell resonated with viewers as he acknowledged the highs and lows of life and the importance of facing them with the support of loved ones.

As the camera panned to display the lifetime score totals of some of the show’s regular guests, Reali closed the episode by embracing his roots as a “stat boy” and thanking everyone for their continued support. His final words, “come with me, where it’s real,” encapsulated the genuine and authentic connection that had made “Around the Horn” a beloved part of the sports media landscape.

Although the show may have come to an end, Reali’s legacy as the host of “Around the Horn” will live on in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike. His passion for sports, his dedication to fairness and lively debate, and his ability to connect with viewers on a personal level have left an indelible mark on the world of sports journalism. As Reali embarks on a new chapter in his career, fans can look back on his time on “Around the Horn” with fondness and appreciation for the impact he has had on the sports media industry.