Tony Reali isn’t sure what’s next. But he’s hungry and optimistic about his sports media future.
After two decades hosting Around the Horn, ESPN has decided to end the long-running show after a 23-year run. Reali tried to stop it and even hoped to change ESPN’s mind, but the Worldwide Leader made its decision. And now, it might be time for Reali to move on as well.
Reali’s contract with ESPN expires this summer, and according to The Washington Post’s Ben Strauss, Reali’s efforts to stay in Bristol haven’t gained traction. Meanwhile, Strauss also reports that Reali recently met with NBC about potential Olympic coverage, which is a telltale sign he’s exploring new avenues beyond ESPN.
Reali has previously expressed interest in the NFL RedZone job, as Scott Hanson has yet to reach a new deal. But he did clarify that he was talking about the show as a model for other types of television and is not attempting to take Hanson away from his hosting duties. There’s also the question of him maybe succeeding Ernie Johnson on Inside the NBA now that ESPN will license the show starting next year, but that seems more hypothetical than anything.
Beyond traditional sports broadcasting, Reali told Barrett Media that he hopes to expand into game shows, children’s television, esports, and sports reporting. He’s also focusing on short- and long-form podcasting and parenting content on his own platforms, including a forthcoming YouTube channel.
Whatever happens in his immediate sports media future, Reali isn’t scoffing at anything. He’s open-minded and willing to try new things. In his conversation with Strauss, he recalled someone once asking if he wanted to start a podcast. At the time, he said no; he already had a TV show. But in hindsight, perhaps that response was a little short-sighted.
“We’ve done 4,900 episodes, and now the show goes away,” Reali said. “I never want to be in that position again, of not being aware of the business.”
And if Reali is anything, it’s aware. Which is why he’s taking all the interviews he possibly can.