The 2023 Layoffs and President Jimmy Pitaro’s Whiteboard Warning
Suzy Kolber was part of a sweeping 20-talent layoff at ESPN in June 2023 that also swept out prominent figures like Steve Young, Max Kellerman, and Jalen Rose. At the time of the cuts, Kolber hosted the network’s high-profile “Monday Night Countdown” pregame show. Speaking on the “Sports Media with Richard Deitsch” podcast, Kolber recalled the initial conversation she had with ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro about her job security. According to Kolber, Pitaro told her, “Suzy there’s a whiteboard and your name’s on it. I don’t really know for sure right now but your name is on it.” Kolber remembered coming home that evening, sitting in the kitchen next to her daughter, and crying as she realized the reality of the situation.
Norby Williamson Call and the Non-Disparagement Provision
The following week, Kolber received a follow-up call from then-ESPN executive Norby Williamson. Kolber stated on the podcast that she “lost it” when Williamson informed her that she could not say “anything disparaging about the company or we can take the last year of your contract.” This friction came after Kolber had already agreed to a significant financial concession to stay at the network. “I did think the 39% cut was going to get me to the end [of my career],” she said on the podcast. At 62 years old and with 27 years invested at ESPN—including launching ESPN2 and shooting the initial marketing tape for the X Games—Kolber expressed deep frustration over a perceived lack of basic appreciation during her departure, noting that nobody at the network offered a simple “thanks for 27 years.”
Budget Pressures and the Shift to Scott Van Pelt
According to reporting from OutKick, Kolber’s exit ultimately stemmed from sheer numbers. The network needed to trim substantial talent salaries, and Kolber became expendable because ESPN had other anchors capable of handling the pregame duties. ESPN subsequently tapped Scott Van Pelt to replace Kolber on “Monday Night Countdown.” The move aligned with the network’s broader restructuring ahead of its first-ever Super Bowl broadcast, a marquee assignment tied directly to the “Monday Night Football” anchor chair. Despite her production value and tenure, Kolber found herself squeezed out by a heavy roster of NFL hosts that includes Mike Greenberg and Laura Rutledge.
Did you know? Suzy Kolber was the first person hired for the launch of ESPN 2 and was assigned to shoot the marketing tape for the X Games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Suzy Kolber laid off by ESPN?
According to OutKick, Kolber was let go as part of a wider cost-cutting measure in June 2023 that targeted high-salary on-air talent as ESPN sought to trim its wage bill.
Who replaced Suzy Kolber on Monday Night Countdown?
ESPN tapped veteran anchor Scott Van Pelt to take over hosting duties on “Monday Night Countdown” following Kolber’s departure.
What is Suzy Kolber doing now?
Kolber has shifted her focus to digital and network interviewing, creating a new interview series titled “The Originals” for the Scripps Sports Network.
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