ESPN to part ways with Bill Simmons after contract negotiations end
ESPN has chosen not to renew the contract of its sports journalist, Bill Simmons following the expiry of his contract later this year.
The sports broadcaster’s president, John Skipper, made the announcement on Friday (8 May) stating that following negotiations; “it was time to move on”.
Skipper’s full statement read: “I decided today that we are not going to renew Bill Simmons’ contract. We have been in negotiations and it was clear it was time to move on. ESPN’s relationship with Bill has been mutually beneficial - he has produced great content for us for many years and ESPN has provided him many new opportunities to spread his wings. We wish Bill continued success as he plans his next chapter. ESPN remains committed to Grantland and we have a strong team in place.”
Simmons, known for his blunt and matter-of-fact sports commentary, was suspended for three weeks last September for describing NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as “a liar” while criticising his handling of the domestic violence incident involving American football player, Ray Rice.
Simmons is also editor-in-chief of ESPN published title, Grantland.