SportsCenter host Neil Everett, 61, is leaving ESPN after ‘he refused pay cut’

Long-time SportsCenter anchor Neil Everett is leaving ESPN after 23 years at the cable sports network. The 61-year-old confirmed the news to Front Office Sports, saying: ‘Bartender…last call.’

In addition to several side projects, the Portland native told FOS that he plans to increase his existing role with the NBA’s Trail Blazers, and also has several side projects as well: ‘ESPN changed my life, but now it’s time for me to change my life. Time to write a new chapter.’

As FOS reported, Everett was offered to stay at ESPN at a reduced salary, but declined the offer. Another ESPN veteran, Kenny Mayne, took a similar path in 2021. 

More recently, ESPN decided to part ways with NHL analyst and former Chicago Blackhawks star Chris Chelios, and more on-air talent is expected to be dismissed amid widespread layoffs within the Disney corporation.

ESPN is slashing payroll as part of Disney chief executive officer Bob Iger’s effort to cut 7,000 jobs and $5.5 billion. Meanwhile, ESPN just added YouTube host Pat McAfee for a reported $85 million over the next five years.

Veteran SportsCenter cohosts Neil Everett (right) and Stan Verrett (left) pictured in 2018

Everett’s long-time co-host Stan Verrett commemorated the move on Twitte

Everett’s long-time co-host Stan Verrett commemorated the move on Twitter. 

‘I started at espn in 2000, a few months after Neil Everett. We joined up for sportscenter from LA in 2009. For 14 years, he was the best teammate I could imagine. Selfless, caring, generous, and a pro’s pro. He’s moving on now, but we are brothers for life. That’ll never change.’

Everett has been a favorite in the popular ‘This Is SportsCenter’ ad campaign, and is known for wisecracking his way through highlights.

Prior to ESPN, Everett worked in Hawaii, which is why he uses ‘Aloha’ frequently.

Everett has been working with the Trail Blazers for the last two years.