Linda Cohn: ESPN Cut Salary 80%, Felt Pushed Out

Linda Cohn, a former ESPN SportsCenter host, has spoken candidly about her 34-year tenure with the network, detailing a significant salary reduction and feelings of being sidelined. In her final year, Cohn's salary was reportedly cut by 80 percent after ESPN closed its Los Angeles studio. She stated that despite her significant contributions to NHL coverage, she was increasingly relegated to SportsCenter broadcasts rather than direct rink-side reporting.

Cohn indicated that the decision to cut her salary and reduce her role felt like a push toward her departure. She expressed that loyalty did not seem to be valued by the network. Following her exit in June 2026, Cohn launched an independent podcast, The Linda Cohn Show, in July 2026, later partnering with Bleav in September 2026. She described this new venture as a space where she has 'total freedom' and can speak without constraint.