Heartbreaking Cause Of Death Revealed For The Former Host Of Hit ESPN Show ‘Sports Science’ John Brenkus

Television personality John Brenkus posing in suitTelevision personality John Brenkus (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images)
John Brenkus, who won six Emmy Awards as the founder and host of “Sport Science,” tragically passed away on May 31, his family announced Sunday on social media.

The man who brought his unique explanations of science to sports fans died at the age of 54.

“Sporst Science” first aired on Fox Sports Net in 2007 and later moved to ESPN, with Brenkus hosting and explaining how and why things in the sports world were possible. He would cover topics ranging from how much force NFL players create in a tackle to what makes NBA star Steph Curry so good to how competitive eater Joey Chestnut is physically able to consume so many hot dogs.

Unfortunately, what appeared to be a happy life wasn’t always that behind the scenes.

Brenkus, tragically, reportedly died by suicide. His family announced that he had been battling depression.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” the statement on Brenkus’s X account read.

“John, co-founder of Base Productions, Founder of Brinx.TV, and co-creator and host of the six-time Emmy award-winning ‘Sports Science,’ had been battling depression.

“John lost his fight with this terrible illness on May 31, 2025. His heartbroken family and friends request privacy at this time and encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.”

John Brenkus’ Family Encourages Others To Seek Help

Jul 18, 2018; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Television personality John Brenkus arrives for the 2018 ESPYS at Microsoft Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The sports world was left stunned on Sunday night as the family of John Brenkus, the host of “Sport Science,” announced his death on social media.

Brenkus was 54.

A statement posted on his social media page said Brenkus “lost his fight” with depression at the end of the month.

Brenkus’ family made a point to “encourage anyone who is struggling with depression to seek help.”

Brenkus had been open about his ongoing battle with depression, and he even revealed as much to former ESPN colleague Marcellus Wiley on a 2023 podcast. He stated he tried to take his life, but his dog saved him.