ESPN faces allegations that it removed analyst Paul Finebaum from airwaves following his expressed interest in running for Alabama’s Senate seat as a Republican candidate. OutKick founder Clay Travis claimed Disney/ESPN has barred Finebaum from appearing on all network shows, including long-standing programs like “SportsCenter,” “First Take,” and “Get Up.” Travis cited sources stating Finebaum, who has been with ESPN since 2014, was removed after discussing his potential Senate bid in an interview.
The controversy emerged amid conflicting reports about Finebaum’s scheduling. While an ESPN spokesperson denied the allegations as “TOTALLY FALSE,” Travis disputed this, noting Finebaum’s absence from major shows despite prior appearances. OutKick also reported uncertainty over whether Finebaum would appear on Tuesday’s “First Take,” with sources offering contradictory accounts.
Finebaum, a prominent figure in college football media, has been registered as a Republican in North Carolina but recently moved back to Alabama, planning to re-register there. He previously mentioned the assassination of Charlie Kirk as a factor in his political interest, though he has not officially announced a Senate run.
ESPN’s handling of the situation has drawn comparisons to recent controversies involving other personalities, including Jimmy Kimmel, though no direct link was made. Meanwhile, Finebaum’s SEC Network appearances and radio show continued uninterrupted, according to reports.
