ESPN Strives to Reunite Iconic Duo to Replace ‘Around the Horn’
In a significant shift within ESPN’s programming, the network is reportedly considering reuniting Scott Van Pelt and Ryen Russillo to replace the long-running show “Around the Horn.” The duo shared a successful partnership from 2009 to 2015, with their show known initially as “The Scott Van Pelt Show,” later rebranded to “SVP & Russillo.” However, Van Pelt left ESPN in 2015 to host the midnight edition of SportsCenter.
ESPN’s Strategy for Replacement
Recently, reports from The Athletic highlighted ESPN’s interest in bringing Van Pelt and Russillo back together. Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, expressed his enthusiasm for this potential reunion. “That was a bit of a selfish concept by me, because I was such a huge fan of those two when they were together years ago,” Magnus said. Despite the interest, Russillo decided to continue his career with Barstool Sports rather than return to ESPN.
Ryen Russillo’s Career Transition
- Russillo left ESPN in 2019 after remaining with the network until then.
- He moved to collaborate with Bill Simmons at The Ringer.
- Currently, he is transitioning his show to Barstool Sports, owned by Dave Portnoy.
Future of ESPN’s 5 PM Slot
Simultaneously, discussions are underway regarding who will take over the coveted 5 p.m. time slot, formally occupied by “Around the Horn.” ESPN has not finalized its decision, but several candidates have emerged:
- Scott Van Pelt – Potential host of the upcoming show.
- Peter Schrager – NFL analyst in the running.
- Brian Windhorst – NBA analyst also being considered.
The final episode of “Around the Horn” aired on May 23, marking the end of its 23-year run. Until the new show is launched in 2026, “SportsCenter” will temporarily fill the time slot.
Anticipated Launch Date
The new program, potentially featuring Scott Van Pelt, is slated to debut in 2026, aiming to revitalize ESPN’s sports talk lineup. Fans will have to wait to see how these developments unfold and whether Van Pelt will return to the daily sports conversation he once dominated with Russillo.
