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Beloved 'SportsCenter' Anchor Announces Cancer Diagnosis

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 10:12 AM ET

One of the longest tenured anchors on "SportsCenter" had unfortunate news to share with the rest of the world on Thursday.

During an appearance on "Good Morning America," ESPN's Jay Harris revealed that he's been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He spoke to Michael Strahan about his health situation.

As of right now, the plan is for Harris to miss a month before returning to "SportsCenter." Although this situation can't be easy, he seems to be handling it very well.

"I’m having surgery on Tuesday," Harris told Strahan. "I'll be away from 'SportsCenter' for about a month to recover. Then I'm coming back better than ever."

Harris said his doctors are "quite optimistic" about his prognosis.

"Per my last scan nothing has spread, so once we take out the prostate, hopefully that will be it," Harris added. "That's the goal."

Harris is hopeful that sharing his story will inspire other men to be on top of their health and get checked regularly.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 05: A view of the logo during ESPN The Party on February 5, 2016 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Mike Windle/Getty Images for ESPN)

Harris joined ESPN in February 2003. He has hosted "Outside the Lines" and "NFL Live" in the past, but he's best known for his work on "SportsCenter."

Before becoming a fan favorite at ESPN, Harris worked for WPGH-TV in Pittsburgh.

"A native of Norfolk, Va., Harris graduated from Old Dominion University with a bachelor’s degree in speech communication. In 2003 he was honored with a Distinguished Alumni Award from the University. In 2004, he was the keynote speaker for Old Dominion’s 100th commencement ceremony and was honored to be chosen to speak at commencement again in 2022. He also served two terms on ODU’s Board of Visitors," ESPN's bio for Harris states.

"Among his other honors, Harris contributed to multiple Sportscenter Emmy Awards, he’s a recipient of a Silver World Medal from the New York Festival Awards, Robert L. Vann Award from the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation, and has an EXCEL Award from the Hampton Roads Black Media Professionals."

Harris isn't done being a main contributor at ESPN, that's for sure.

We're hoping Harris has a speedy recovery.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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