One of ESPN’s most successful programs, Pardon the Interruption, also known as PTI, is celebrating its 25th anniversary on October 22, 2026. Hosted by Michael Wilbon and Tony Kornheiser, the program has been a mainstay at ESPN since its inception.
Wilbon and Kornheiser use graphics and a timer to stay on task as they tackle the top sports topics of the day. They will host back-to-back 30 minute episodes on October 22 beginning at 5 PM EDT.
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How sports has changed since PTI premiered in 2001
Wilbon and Kornheiser were longtime Washington Post reporters who went on the air weeks after the 9/11 tragedy. The show got its start in an era when cell phones and social media were not integral to the sports world.
They have managed to keep the show fresh despite a dramatic change in the way fans watch and absorb sports news over the past 25 years.
What has not changed is the duo is surrounded by an ecletic assortment of sports and entertainment memorabilia, bobbleheads, and novelty items. The two also shout out to the Canadian fans at the conclusion of each episode.
Wilbon and Kornheiser signed three year extensions in 2025 so the show is expected to continue until at least 2028.
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Famous media personalities began their careers on PTI
Tony Reali, who went on to host Around the Horn on ESPN from 2002 until its cancellation in 2025, got his start on PTI. Reali is expected to visit PTI next week as part of the anniversary festivities. On PTI, Reali was affectionately known as “Stat Boy.” He appeared on the PTI from its inception through 2014.
Pablo Torre was a frequent substitute host on PTI. His career skyrocketed in recent years because of his investigative show entitled Pablo Torre Finds Out.
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