Tributes are flowing from across the globe following the unexpected death of beloved sports show host John Brenkus. The founder of the acclaimed Sports Science program passed away on Saturday at the age of 54. According to a statement from his heartbroken family, Brenkus lost his battle with depression over the weekend.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the news that John Brenkus has passed away,” the family stated. “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.”
The Impact of Sports Science
John Brenkus rose to fame with the creation of the groundbreaking Sports Science program. Originally debuting on Fox Sports Net in 2007, the show later moved to ESPN, where it continued to captivate audiences by exploring the science behind some of the world’s greatest athletes and their achievements. Filmed inside an airport hangar in Los Angeles, the program delved into various aspects of athletic performance, such as speed and reaction time, and even explored unique subjects like competitive eating with champion Joey Chestnut.
The show was both a critical and commercial success, earning multiple Emmy Awards throughout its run. Brenkus’s work on Sports Science was widely praised for bringing a scientific perspective to sports entertainment, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience.
Legacy Beyond Television
Beyond his television career, Brenkus was a pioneer in digital media. He founded Brinx.TV, a platform dedicated to sports and general media coverage. As CEO, Brenkus continued to innovate in the field, expanding his influence beyond traditional broadcasting.
Brenkus had been candid about his struggles with mental health. In a 2023 interview with former NFL player Marcellus Wiley, he revealed, “I fell into a very deep depression. I spiraled into a deep, deep depression and I was flat-out suicidal.”
Remembering a Television Icon
The news of Brenkus’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike. Marcellus Wiley was among the first to express his condolences, writing, “RIP John Brenkus,” accompanied by a prayer and heart emoji. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III also paid homage, stating, “Prayers up for John Brenkus and his family. The man who gave us the Emmy-winning Sports Science lost his battle with depression at the age of 54.”
Fantasy sports analyst Matthew Berry shared his sorrow, recalling, “I’m so incredibly sad to learn of the passing of John Brenkus. I did an episode of Sports Science back in the day and we remained friends. The ultimate professional, he was kind, encouraging, smart, and inventive. This is awful. RIP John Brenkus.”
A Call to Action
The tragic loss of John Brenkus highlights the ongoing struggle many face with mental health issues. His family and friends have urged those battling depression to seek help, emphasizing the importance of support and understanding in overcoming such challenges.
As the world remembers John Brenkus, his legacy continues to inspire. His work on Sports Science and his contributions to media have left an indelible mark on the industry and on the hearts of those who admired him.
The sports community and fans worldwide mourn the loss of a true innovator and advocate for mental health awareness. The impact of his work will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
