Michael Wilbon, the longtime co-host of ESPN’s Pardon the Interruption, announced Monday that he is taking a leave of absence because of what he described as multiple health issues.
Wilbon, who turns 68 later this month, said in a post on X that he was heading to “the injured list” and hoped the absence would not be extended. He did not provide specific details about his condition.
The ESPN personality, who also appears on the network’s NBA coverage, said people in his personal life had noticed “worrisome signs” in recent years that he had largely ignored. He clarified that the issues were not related to alcohol or gambling.
“I have no idea how exactly this part of my journey will wind up,” Wilbon wrote. “The goal is to come out of it feeling much better than I do now and ready to return to sparring with Tony.”
Wilbon’s last appearance on Pardon the Interruption was on October 26. The program recently marked its 25th anniversary and is recognized for helping reshape televised sports debate.
Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser became colleagues at The Washington Post in the 1980s, and their friendship has been central to the show. Wilbon said he was grateful for the support of his colleagues while he takes time away to focus on his well-being.
Sources: The Guardian Sport.