CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) ESPN’s ‘Sport Science’ host and UVA alumna, John Brenkus, passed away on Saturday May 31 at age 54.

Brenkus’ team broke the news late last night on X, stating, “It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away. John 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.”

Fellow ESPN reporter and writer Adam Schefter shared his condolences.

“This is incredibly sad. John was so good at what he did,” Schefter posted on X. “Sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace, John.”

Brenkus hosted and co-founded the six-time Emmy award-winning ‘Sport Science’, running from 2007 to 2017. This ten-year run skyrocketed Brenkus’ career, making him a nationally recognized sports personality.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Brenkus is, “the man who has redefined sports TV.”

Brenkus’ passing is not just a ripple in the sports media world, but his ties to Charlottesville make his legacy local.

In an interview with UVA Magazine in 2011, Brenkus spoke on his connection to Charlottesville.

“I was an intern at the Darden Graduate School of Business’s Department of Visual Communications. That’s where I learned how to edit. I had access to video cameras, access to video decks, and taught myself everything,” Brenkus said. “The advice that Steven Soderbergh gave me was, ‘Don’t go to film school. Just figure out a way to get your hands on equipment and learn to do everything yourself,’ which is exactly what I did.”

Not only was Brenkus a famous sports analyst but he was also an inspiring speaker.

Brenkus presented a Ted Talk at the University of Nevada in 2018 titled “Why girls and boys should play sports together.”

This talk was meant to inspire social change and encourage sports to be more accepting and more strongly connected.

Brenkus’ inspirational voice lives on after his death.

Brenkus’ website states, “what does your team do in the face of a challenge or crisis? Do they sit on the sidelines, or do the rally?”

This may echo what his fans, team and loved ones are planning in his absence.