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'PTI' host Wilbon stepping back indefinitely because of health issues
Michael Wilbon. USA TODAY Sports

'PTI' host Michael Wilbon stepping back indefinitely because of health issues

By Clark Dalton  |  Last updated Nov 2, 2026 3:12 PM ET
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ESPN "Pardon the Interruption" host Michael Wilbon is heading to the sports media version of injured reserve.

On Monday, Wilbon announced he will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from "PTI" and ESPN's NBA coverage because of health problems. Wilbon, who turns 68 on Nov. 19, suffered a minor heart attack in January 2008 but returned to the show shortly after undergoing surgery. He also has Type 2 diabetes. 

Michael Wilbon, Jimmy Pitaro release statements

"I have loved sparring with and hosting 'PTI' with Tony [Kornheiser] every single day these past 25 years. And I'm incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement of my colleagues as I take this time to concentrate on me, specifically on my well-being," Wilbon said. "I have no idea exactly how this part of my journey will wind up. The goal is to come out of it feeling much better than I do now and return to sparring with Tony." 

Afterward, ESPN chairman Pitaro released a statement, expressing support for Wilbon as he aims to make a speedy recovery.

"Michael and his family have ESPN's full support as he takes time away to focus on his health and well-being," Pitaro said. "He's an important member of our ESPN team and widely respected by his peers, sports fans and so many others throughout our industry.

"We are here for Michael every step of the way and look forward to welcoming him back whenever he's ready."

Who will fill in for Michael Wilbon?

Dan Shanoff of The Athletic reported Pablo Torre or Frank Isola — both longtime substitutes for Wilbon — will fill in for him this week. Long-term plans are "still in development." 

"PTI" recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Wilbon and Kornheiser have hosted it throughout its run. Until Wilbon returns, the show won't feel the same.

"'PTI' continues with the same level of success it had 25 years ago," longtime ESPN executive producer Erik Rydholm said in October. "And the reason for that, for us, is Tony and Mike. Because people feel connected to them and their relationship. It feels familiar to them, with family being the essence of familiar. They feel connected to it, and that carries them through. ...They have a dynamic where one plus one equals something more than two."

Clark Dalton
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Clark Dalton is a 2022 journalism graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. He gained experience in sports media over the past seven years — from live broadcasting and creating short films to podcasting and producing. In college, he wrote for The Daily Texan. He loves sports and enjoys hiking, kayaking and camping.

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