John Brenkus, known for his role as the host and co-creator of ESPN’s “Sport Science,” died by suicide on May 31, 2025, as reported by the Virginia Department of Health, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Brenkus was 54 years old.
His family made the announcement on June 1 through a statement on his X account and the Brinx.TV website. The statement mentioned Brenkus’s struggle with depression, stating that he “lost his fight with this terrible illness.” The family and friends asked for privacy while urging those facing depression to seek assistance.
The medical examiner’s office confirmed the cause of death, as reported by TMZ on June 3, 2025. Brenkus co-founded BASE Productions, established Brinx.TV, and was the co-creator and host of the six-time Emmy Award-winning “Sport Science.”
“Sport Science” debuted on Fox Sports Net in 2007 and later moved to ESPN in the following years. The show was renowned for its approach to analyzing athletic performance through scientific methods. ESPN described the series as one that demystified sports’ myths by employing advanced technology to assess momentum, friction, and gravity.
Throughout his career, Brenkus hosted nearly 1,800 segments that explored the relationship between science and sports. The show secured six Sports Emmy awards and featured professional athletes demonstrating scientific principles in sports.
ESPN honored Brenkus on “SportsCenter” after his death was announced. Network representatives praised him as an innovator, entertainer, and educator who would be greatly missed. The tribute aired on Monday, June 2, with anchors Randy Scott and Riggs Cuff highlighting his impact on sports media.
Previously, Brenkus had been open about his mental health challenges. In January 2023, he appeared on Marcellus Wiley’s podcast “Never Shut Up” to discuss his battle with depression. He shared that after selling “Sport Science” to ESPN and relocating to Park City, Utah, he experienced isolation and a deep depression.
In that 2023 interview, Brenkus revealed he had been suicidal, with a noose prepared, but credited his dog Zeppelin for saving him by tugging on his jeans and pulling him out of that state. Brenkus stated, “I was flat-out suicidal.”
Following the incident, Brenkus reached out to his mother and acknowledged his mental struggles. He then sought help from multiple psychologists and psychiatrists before finding a doctor in Virginia who guided him towards recovery.
At the time of the 2023 interview, Brenkus mentioned he had not experienced depression after receiving proper treatment. He stressed the importance of discussing mental health and encouraged people to reach out to hotlines, friends, family, and other support systems.
Brenkus used his platform to raise awareness about mental health issues, describing his experience as both challenging and ultimately rewarding. He likened his journey through depression to moving through a difficult period to reach a better place.
The sports media community mourned Brenkus’s death. Former ESPN fantasy football analyst Matthew Berry remembered him as a professional who was kind, encouraging, intelligent, and inventive. Berry mentioned they had remained friends after his appearance on an episode of “Sport Science.”
Wiley, who had interviewed Brenkus about his mental health, reposted the announcement of his death with “RIP” and prayer and heart emojis. Other sports media figures also shared condolences and memories of working with Brenkus.
The family’s statement concluded by encouraging anyone facing depression to seek help, emphasizing the importance of mental health resources and support systems.
