UPDATE (5/3/2019):
ESPN has shared a tweet on the status of Ley’s return saying: “Bob Ley has decided to extend his time away from Outside the Lines. We look forward to Bob’s return when he will add to his unprecedented list of accomplishments built during his nearly 40 years and counting at ESPN. Outside the Lines will continue with hosts Ryan Smith and Jeremy Schapp.”
ESPN statement on Bob Ley: pic.twitter.com/nlRzI6atih
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) May 3, 2019
Previously:
ESPN’s Bob Ley, host of Outside the Lines, has announced that he will be taking a 6 month sabbatical from the show starting on October 1.
What They Are Saying:
- Bob Ley: Beginning October 1, I’ll be taking a six-month sabbatical from my Outside the Lines duties. The idea of stepping back to re-charge is fully 100% mine, and one I’ve been considering for a while. I truly appreciate the company’s understanding and cooperation.
- ESPN: We completely support Bob’s decision and look forward to his return April 1. In the meantime, Outside the Lines is in great hands with Jeremy Schaap, Kate Fagan, Ryan Smith and the award-winning production team.
About Bob Ley:
- ESPN’s longest-serving commentator, joining the network as a SportsCenter anchor on its third day of operation in 1979.
- Has hosted Outside the Lines since the program’s inception in 1990.
- Received a Sports Emmy in 2018 for outstanding studio host.