For three decades, Linda Cohn was the steady, energetic voice that welcomed millions of sports fans into their living rooms every night. That era officially came to a close on June 26, 2026, when the Hall of Fame broadcaster hosted her final three editions of SportsCenter at 6 p.m., 10 p.m., and 11 p.m. ET from ESPN’s Bristol headquarters.
ESPN announced earlier this week that Cohn’s last day with the network would be June 30, but her on-air farewell was scheduled for Friday evening. The network’s social media team shared a montage of her greatest moments, prompting an outpouring of gratitude from fans who grew up watching her deliver the day’s biggest stories.
“Linda Cohn was part of so many sports fans’ daily routine,” one fan wrote. “End of an era. Congrats on an incredible career.” Another added, “I grew up watching @LindaCohn. You brought energy, wisdom, charisma, and passion to everything you did at ESPN. You were an important part of our household. Thank you for everything you’ve done to bring sports to fans around the world.”
Cohn, 66, joined ESPN in 1992 and became the network’s longest-tenured SportsCenter anchor. In a statement, she reflected on her journey: “When I look back, I have amazing memories of the shows I hosted, the games I reported on, the athletes I met and the outstanding colleagues I got to work with. I’ve always said I was a fan first and I’ve always tried to keep that top of mind. But what I’m most proud of is that my career lasted long enough for me to see little girls grow up watching SportsCenter, enter this business, and succeed in it. If my journey helped make that path a little easier for them, then that’s the achievement I’ll cherish most.”
Fans echoed that sentiment. “Linda has been doing it longer than I have been alive,” one commenter wrote. “One of the best they’ve ever had. Happy Retirement!” Another added, “An incredible legacy. Generations of sports fans grew up watching Linda Cohn deliver the day’s biggest stories. Happy retirement, and thank you for the memories.”
Cohn, already inducted into the National Sports Media Hall of Fame, leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the anchor desk. She was a trailblazer for women in sports media, paving the way for countless female broadcasters who followed. Her departure marks the end of an era for ESPN, similar to the recent farewell of another iconic anchor earlier this year.
While Cohn is stepping away from SportsCenter, she hinted that her story is not over. “I’m grateful for every moment I had at ESPN but I’m inspired and energized by the opportunities that lie ahead,” she said. “My story is still being written.”
As the sports world bids adieu to a legend, fans can take comfort in knowing that Cohn’s impact will be felt for generations. Her final broadcast was not just a goodbye—it was a celebration of a career that changed the game for women in sports media, much like the ongoing evolution of the WNBA’s growth into a 50-game season reflects the expanding opportunities for female athletes.
Congratulations, Linda Cohn, on an extraordinary run. You will be missed, but your legacy will never fade.
