Total Pro Sports
For more than two decades, ESPN’s Around the Horn offered viewers a smart, fast-paced dose of sports debate with a touch of humor and heart. But on Friday, the iconic program aired its final episode, bringing a bittersweet end to a 23-year run and nearly 5,000 episodes.
Longtime host Tony Reali signed off with gratitude and warmth, but one panelist decided to use his final moments on air to speak a little more freely.
Tim Cowlishaw, a regular on the show and a respected journalist, didn’t hold back during his last “Face Time” segment. While he thanked fans and the network for the opportunity, he also took a sharp jab at ESPN’s recent talent strategy, signaling some frustration with the company’s direction.
Cowlishaw started by expressing appreciation***: “I want to thank ESPN for the opportunity that I did not seek and never expected to get back in 2002.”*** But he quickly pivoted with a remark that raised eyebrows among longtime viewers.
“I’d also like to say that while ESPN is currently gearing itself more toward hiring athletes instead of journalists, did you not see the 32 points I scored in an intramural game? Were you not aware of my birdies on 8 and 16 at Augusta back in 2002?”
Tim Cowlishaw with some pointed words toward ESPN in his final Face Time on 'Around the Horn': pic.twitter.com/qyMSXZI7uG
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 23, 2025
It was a clear shot at what many in the industry see as a growing shift- networks leaning more on former athletes as on-air talent while seasoned journalists take a backseat. Cowlishaw’s blend of humor and criticism struck a chord with fans who have watched that trend evolve across sports media.
The moment added a layer of honesty to what was otherwise a celebratory farewell. Cowlishaw ended his segment with a nod to the next show in Around the Horn’s time slot.
“We had a wonderful 22 years on a show where I felt imposter syndrome every time I walked into this studio. I hope the people on the next show in this time slot have as much fun and bring as many smiles over the next 22 years. I’ll be counting.”
Tony Reali closed the show by revealing the final leaderboard. Woody Paige topped the list with 700 career wins, a fitting finish for one of the show’s most beloved voices.
Around the Horn may be gone, but the echoes of its camaraderie, spirited debates, and yes, honest goodbyes, will stick with fans for years to come.
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