Rest in peace... He was one of my favorites on the channel. No schtick like Berman. Just straightforward and objective. He'll be missed...
Wow. Was he sick? This is kind of shocking news to read. One of the few on the network I really enjoyed, especially during college football/ basketball season.
Just saw this, thought it was a joke. Damn, RIP, I've been watching him on ESPN since I was in middle school.....really shocking, didn't know he was sick....
Someone mentioned that he had a history of depression. Just pure speculation on my part but maybe it was suicide or natural causes? I'm sure more info will come out. He has a book he wrote that's set to be released next year entitled "Playing Hurt: My Journey from Despair to Hope" https://www.amazon.com/Playing-Hurt-Journey-Despair-Hope/dp/0306824736 Here's the description: In Playing Hurt, a leading figure in the sports world —the quintessential “man's man,” who seems to have it all— confesses his constant battle with depression and how it nearly cost him his life. John Saunders —stellar athlete and respected sportscaster —welcomes readers into the heart of his desperate struggle against depression: from insights into the illness's root causes to the nature of modern treatments, from both a medical and cultural perspective. His story unfolds as so many of our lives do— among family, friends, and colleagues —but it also peers into places we don't often discuss openly —psych wards and hospitals. Here is the honest story of a public figure facing his own mental illness head on, and emerging far better off for his effort.
He was absent on the Sports Reporters on Sunday, but I don't recall them mentioning anything, just in the normal introductions Jeremy Schaap was in for him (IIRC). Didn't watch the entire episode, but I think they would have mentioned something if were in terrible condition, unless of course he asked they not mention anything. Edit: And yes, he was one of the best.
rip john http://dailysnark.com/gut-wrenching-hannah-storm-announces-death-friend-john-saunders-live-air/
RIP Just reminiscing now but he stands out in my mind as one of the most natural, objective, and elegantly spoken sports broadcasters that we've seen and heard. I can hear his voice clearly in my head and he never stole the show, only enhanced what was being played out on the field.
Depression can exacerbate any number of actual physical conditions (heart disease, stroke, etc...). He was so great and professional at what he did - iconic ala the Keith Jacksons, Al Michaels's - he will truly be missed.
