It’s been nearly eight years since Jemele Hill signed off from ESPN, but the former SportsCenter anchor is returning- and she’s doing it on familiar turf.
Hill, who carved out a name for herself as a sharp and fearless voice during her time at the network from 2006 to 2017, is stepping back into the ESPN spotlight. On Thursday, May 8, she will appear as a panelist on Around the Horn, ESPN’s long-running debate show.
The return marks a full-circle moment for Hill, whose time at the network included roles as a columnist, commentator, and eventually co-anchor of the 6 p.m. edition of SportsCenter alongside Michael Smith.
Her ESPN exit followed a string of high-profile controversies, sparked mainly by her outspoken political commentary that stirred strong reactions among viewers and executives alike. Since then, Hill has leaned fully into political and cultural commentary through her writing, podcasting, and media ventures.
Now, she’s back on ESPN, just in time to help close out one of its most iconic programs.
Final Farewell For Around The Horn
Around the Horn is preparing to sign off for good later this month after more than two decades on the air. The show, hosted by Tony Reali since 2004, will air its final episode on May 23. Hill’s return comes as part of a farewell stretch that’s expected to feature several past panelists making one last appearance.
Joining Hill on the May 8 episode is another familiar face: Kate Fagan. Fagan, who wrote for ESPN.com, espnW, and ESPN The Magazine during the 2010s, also appeared regularly on Outside the Lines and Around the Horn before leaving the network in 2018. Her return, like Hill’s, brings a sense of nostalgia to longtime viewers.
Returning tomorrow for one last go Around the Horn…
It's @jemelehill & Kate Fagan! 5pm ET pic.twitter.com/R3qX4wibOI
— Around the Horn (@AroundtheHorn) May 7, 2025
With over 4,800 episodes under its belt, Around the Horn has been a daily fixture on ESPN’s weekday lineup since its debut in 2002. Reali took over hosting duties two years into the show’s run, replacing original host Max Kellerman. Over the years, the program built a loyal fan base with its fast-paced format, quick wit, and competitive scoring system.
Few have embraced the show’s quirky format like Woody Paige. The Colorado-based columnist remains its most successful competitor, winning 687 episodes- more than 100 victories ahead of the next closest panelist, Tim Cowlishaw.
As Around the Horn nears its final round, fans can expect more familiar voices and maybe a few surprises. For Hill and Fagan, this week’s appearance feels less like a return and more like a reunion.