Ernie Johnson, the longtime anchor of “Inside the NBA,” announced Wednesday that the current television season will be his last at the helm of the acclaimed sports studio show.
Johnson, 70, revealed the decision in a video posted to social media on Wednesday, Oct. 28, confirming he will conclude his role when the 2026-27 broadcast run finishes. The Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame member is currently presiding over his 37th season guiding the show, which moved to ESPN and ABC under a production agreement with TNT Sports.
“Folks have asked me: ‘So how long are you going to keep doing Inside?’ Well, I want to take a couple of minutes of your time to answer that,” Johnson said in the video. “This will be my last season. Totally my decision. It’s just time.”
Johnson explained that the daily rigor of television work factored directly into his choice. While he long cherished the extensive research required for every broadcast, he noted that the balance had shifted.
“I’ve always prided myself on my preparation, the hours I put in every day getting ready for the next show,” Johnson said. “I’ve always loved that part of my job, but I’ve always vowed that, if that ever became more of a challenge than it is a joy, then I’ll know it’s time to step away. And now, after 37 seasons, it’s time.”
Health considerations and family time
Johnson also revealed that cardiovascular issues played a role in evaluating his future. He said he underwent bypass surgery 14 months ago after experiencing heart problems for nearly two years.
Although he stressed that he feels healthy and that physicians had not directed him to stop working, the experience adjusted his personal priorities. Johnson said he wanted to spend more time with his wife of 44 years, Cheryl Ann, and their five grandchildren.
“Still trying to get this thing to beat exactly the way it should, and we’re getting there,” Johnson said, gesturing to his chest. “So I just want to slow down a bit, spend more time enjoying that.”
Johnson clarified that the announcement does not signify full retirement from broadcasting. He plans to maintain his role covering the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament for TNT Sports and CBS Sports, continue other broadcast obligations, and develop content through his production company, 32Bowties, which launched the show “Good With That.”
An iconic sports studio legacy
Johnson began hosting “Inside the NBA” in 1990 after joining Turner Sports in 1989. Over more than three decades, the Milwaukee native became celebrated for steering the on-air chemistry among former NBA stars Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal. Fellow cast members often referred to Johnson as “The Godfather” for his steady command of the set.
Throughout his career, Johnson has captured eight Sports Emmy Awards for Outstanding Personality/Studio Host, according to Deadline. The program itself has accumulated more than 20 Sports Emmys and gained induction into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
“Ernie Johnson is one of sports media’s most respected and beloved figures,” ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said in a statement reported by ESPN. “For more than three decades, he has been the heart of ‘Inside the NBA,’ helping create one of the most iconic and entertaining studio shows in sports.”
Johnson’s impending departure creates fresh uncertainty about the program’s long-term lineup. Barkley has remarked in recent months that he would also exit the studio desk when Johnson chose to step away, though he has previously changed his mind regarding retirement plans, according to ESPN. It remains unannounced how ESPN and TNT Sports intend to handle succession planning once the season concludes.
