Former ESPN and Fox Sports star John Brenkus, known for creating and hosting the Emmy award-winning "Sport Science" show, has died following a struggle with depression. The respected sports media personality was just 54 years old.
According to the Daily Mail, Brenkus passed away on May 31, 2025, with his family announcing the news on Sunday night. The announcement revealed that Brenkus had been battling depression for some time before his death.
In a statement, his family said: "It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away. John, co-founder of Base Productions, Founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the six-time Emmy award-winning 'Science,' had been battling depression."
Brenkus made his mark in the sports entertainment world as the creator and host of "Sport Science," a program that combined scientific analysis with athletic performance. The innovative show earned him and his team multiple Emmy awards during its run on both ESPN and Fox Sports Net.
Beyond television, Brenkus established himself as an accomplished author. In 2010, he published "The Perfection Point: Sport Science Predicts the Fastest Man, the Highest Jump, and the Limits of Athletic Performance," which became a best-seller among sports enthusiasts and science buffs alike.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Base Productions and later establish Brinx.TV, a streaming platform where he continued to explore the intersection of sports, science, and entertainment. Former NFL defensive end Marcellus Wiley was his partner on the Brinx.TV venture.
In a revealing January 2023 interview with Marcellus Wiley, Brenkus opened up about his serious mental health challenges. The conversation provided insight into the depth of his struggle with depression, which ultimately claimed his life.
"I fell into a very deep depression," Brenkus disclosed during the interview. "I spiraled into a deep, deep depression and I was flat-out suicidal." In that same conversation, he credited his dog with saving his life during one of his darkest moments.
Brenkus had explained how his pet prompted a crucial moment of clarity: "He came to my rescue... and in my suicidal funk, I was like: 'What am I doing?' I literally picked up my phone, called my mom and said: 'There's something wrong with me. I am mentally lost.'" Following this realization, Brenkus described seeking professional help from multiple psychologists and psychiatrists.
News of Brenkus's death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the sports world, with many former colleagues and athletes expressing their shock and sadness at his passing.
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III was among those who paid tribute on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family," Griffin wrote. "The man who gave us the Emmy Winning Sports Science lost his battle with depression."
Marcellus Wiley, Brenkus's colleague and friend, shared a simple but poignant message online, writing "RIP John Brenkus" accompanied by a prayer emoji. The brevity of his post reflected the raw emotion felt by many who worked with the sports science pioneer.
John Brenkus leaves behind a significant legacy in sports media, having revolutionized how audiences understand athletic performance through scientific analysis. His work on "Sport Science" changed the way fans appreciate the physical feats of professional athletes.
In their statement announcing his death, Brenkus's family encouraged "anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help." This call to action serves as a reminder of the seriousness of mental health issues and the importance of reaching out when in crisis.
The six-time Emmy winner's passing at just 54 years old highlights the devastating impact depression can have, even on those who have achieved remarkable professional success. His family has requested privacy as they mourn his loss, while his legacy in sports broadcasting continues to influence the industry.
