Sage Steele waves goodbye to ESPN following legal battle settlement

BRISTOL: Popular broadcaster Sage Steele has bid farewell to her 16-year tenure with the Entertainment and Sports programming Network (ESPN).

According to the media reports, Steele’s departure came after the settlement of a legal case that emerged from remarks she made on the Uncut With Jay Cutler podcast. The remarks triggered a lawsuit, leading to her suspension from the ESPN. She expressed her intention to exercise her First Amendment rights more openly after reaching a resolution.

The reports said that her comments on the podcast included criticism of the ESPN’s COVID-19 vaccination policy and questioning Barack Obama’s racial identity, sparking a media frenzy.

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Steele’s lawsuit alleged a hasty reaction and misrepresentation by the ESPN, resulting in undeserved professional consequences. It also pointed out the workplace harassment and unfair treatment issues, as reported by the media.

Meanwhile, the ESPN and Sage Steele have amicably agreed to part ways, recognising her substantial contributions. The decision marked the end of her time anchoring SportsCenter and hosting NBA Countdown from 2013 to 2017.

Steele’s departure and the legal case underscored broader conversations surrounding freedom of expression and workplace dynamics. Her exit signified her pursuit of greater autonomy in expressing her thoughts.

However, throughout the legal process, Sage Steele maintained her on-screen presence on the ESPN. While the lawsuit aimed for unspecified damages, its central focus was regarding her right to free speech and fair treatment in the workplace.

According to the reports, the ESPN said that Steele’s departure was the outcome of a mutual understanding. The company also extended its gratitude for her contributions and wished her luck for the future endeavors.