John Brenkus, a six-time Emmy-winning host and co-creator of the famous “Sport Science” program televised on ESPN, has died following a battle with depression.
He was 54 years old.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” a message posted on his social media pages announced Sunday.
— John Brenkus (@johnbrenkus_) June 2, 2025
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” the message read on X.
“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.
“John 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 host of “Sports Science,” Brenkus helped to “uncover sports’ biggest myths and mysteries by using cutting-edge technology to measure momentum, friction and the laws of gravity,” according to the show’s ESPN page.
Brenkus had been open about his mental health struggles, sharing in a 2023 interview with former NFL defensive end Marcellus Wiley how he tried to take his own life before his dog saved him.
“In my suicidal funk was like, ‘What am I doing?’ I literally picked up my phone, called my mom, I said, ‘There’s something wrong with me. I am mentally lost,’” Brenkus recounted on the program.
“I then went through a battle, I mean, I’m telling you, a battle, to get out of it.
Members of the NFL and sports media community paid tribute to Brenkus.
“This is incredibly sad. John was so good at what he did. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, John,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter penned Monday on X.
“Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family,” former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III wrote Sunday on X.