ESPN host Hannah Storm had to hold back tears as she announced the death of fellow ESPN pundit John Saunders.
Saunders died Wednesday morning from unknown causes at this time, and Storm announced the news after a commercial break. She was visibly shaken as she gave the audience the sad news.
WATCH:
ESPN president John Skipper released the following statement on Saunders’ death:
John was an extraordinary talent and his friendly, informative style has been a warm welcome to sports fans for decades. His wide range of accomplishments across numerous sports and championship events is among the most impressive this industry has ever seen. More importantly, John was a beloved and devoted family man who cared deeply about people and causes, as evidenced by his long-standing efforts as a passionate board member for The V Foundation for Cancer Research. He was one of the most significant and influential members of the ESPN family, as a colleague and mentor, and he will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this extremely difficult time.
Saunders was 61 years old at the time of his death.