John Brenkus, longtime host of ESPN’s Sports Science, passed away on May 31 at the age of 54. His death was confirmed via a statement on his social media.

The statement revealed that Brenkus had been battling depression. His family and friends asked for privacy while thanking fans for their continued support.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—support is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Brenkus gained fame in the late 2000s through Sports Science, a series blending athletic feats with science, physics, and performance breakdowns.

The groundbreaking show earned nine Sports Emmy nominations and at least two wins, becoming a cult favorite among fans of both sports and science.

Sports Science brought top athletes into the lab to test their speed, strength, and agility, showing how human performance could defy expectations.

Not just a host, Brenkus often jumped into the experiments—testing his own limits to show the real difference between elite athletes and everyday fans.

Outside of hosting, Brenkus co-founded Base Productions and Brinx.TV, merging media and tech to expand storytelling in sports and beyond.

Tributes poured in from fans, athletes, and producers, all praising Brenkus’ creativity, courage, and unique ability to inspire through science and sport.

John Brenkus, longtime host of ESPN’s Sports Science, passed away on May 31 at the age of 54. His death was confirmed via a statement on his social media.