LSU’s Ryan Clark says he was fired after 12 years at ESPN
NOLA.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Former LSU football star and ESPN analyst Ryan Clark was fired after 12 years at the network, expressing disappointment that he had to change aspects of himself to meet executive expectations yet was still let go.
- Clark revealed he felt constrained in expressing himself, stating he couldn’t "be too black" or respond to disrespect without risking his job, highlighting challenges he faced regarding his identity at ESPN.
- He clarified that his departure was not a layoff but a firing and mentioned that an on-air conflict with ESPN’s Peter Schrager, which he believes was overblown, contributed to his exit.
- Despite his frustration, Clark said he wouldn’t change how he represented himself or his community during his time at ESPN, valuing the acceptance he gained in New Orleans and beyond.
- Other notable ESPN personalities, including Karl Ravech, Cam Newton, and Tom Pelissero, were also among those who lost their jobs in the recent round of departures.
