Cause of death revealed for ‘Sport Science’ founder John Brenkus

John Brenkus, the co-founder and former host of the once-popular show “Sport Science,” died earlier this week, and officials have since confirmed the cause of death.

A statement that was shared on Brenkus’ social media account Sunday evening revealed that Brenkus died at age 54 after what was described as a battle with depression.

According to TMZ, the medical examiner’s office for the Virginia Department of Health has determined that Brenkus committed suicide.

Brenkus had been open about his struggles with depression. During an interview with former NFL player Marcellus Wiley in 2023, Brenkus revealed that he once attempted suicide.

The “Sport Science” program premiered in 2007 on Fox Sports Network before moving to ESPN after two seasons. ESPN purchased the “Sport Science” brand from Brenkus in 2017. While the network only aired one full season of the Emmy Award-winning show in 2010, the concept was later used for segments on “SportsCenter” and other ESPN programs.

The segment examined the science behind a variety of aspects of the sports world, with Brenkus often weighing in on polarizing topics such as “Deflategate” and connecting them to science.

Brenkus had tried to revive his show independently in recent years.