As we reported earlier, it was Jemele Hill who proactively went to ESPN for a change in her role in the company. It was very proactive on her part. MAGA media led by Clay Travis put out a multitude of lies trying to say she was demoted, but as MAGA would say that was fake news.
Even before the ESPN press release, it was known to everyone with real connections in the industry that Jemele wanted out of the SC6 to do more meaningful things.
ESPN granted that request.
“There is an old adage that says, the heart wants what it wants,” said Hill. “I started at ESPN 11 years ago as a columnist and while I have worn many hats in the time since, my true love always has been writing, reporting and commentary. While I have grown in every way imaginable this last year on the 6 p.m. SportsCenter, deep down I knew it wasn’t my calling. I approached (ESPN Executive Vice President, Content) Connor Schell recently and asked if they would consider re-thinking my role. And as has been the case throughout my 11 years at this company, ESPN graciously worked with me to determine the best way for me to continue to do meaningful work.
“My first choice was to work with The Undefeated, a site that covers the intersection of race, African-American culture and sports in creative and compelling ways,” she said. “I admire, trust and have unconditional respect for (ESPN Senior Vice President & Editor-in-Chief) Kevin Merida and The Undefeated staff. I have no doubt we will create amazing content together. I’m also thankful to Connor for not only hearing my request, but being immensely supportive throughout this process. I have longed for some time to return to my roots, so to speak. I’m ecstatic to be in such a supportive environment to explore the next phase in my career.
“The telecast continues to evolve as our primary mission is serving sports fans no matter the time of day,” Williamson said. “We have clearly learned that viewers expect the most comprehensive news coverage and compelling analysis during the 6 p.m. hour. Michael Smith is an experienced journalist and seasoned commentator and I’m confident that his talents can help us achieve our objectives as we move forward.”
Smith added: “Jemele and I created something special, and I will always be proud of her and our work together. She will continue to do amazing things here at ESPN. I am honored to be part of the next iteration of American sports television’s signature brand — SportsCenter.”
ESPN tried something new, and it simply didn’t work.
Their audience wasn’t and maybe never will be ready for a WOKE Sportscenter so they will be going back to the more traditional style.
Those who prefer their reporters and commentators to have a true voice about the realities of the world will follow Jemele on her journey to doing more meaningful work with The Undefeated.