Chris Carlin addressed Bart Scott’s reported departure from ESPN and ESPN New York during Tuesday morning’s Bart & Carlin. The co-host said the news was still settling in and left questions about the show’s future unanswered.
“Frankly, it’s all just kind of setting in,” Carlin said on the air. “There’s a lot of things that are still up in the air.”
Scott’s Exit Leaves a Midday Opening
ESPN reportedly let Scott go as part of a broader round of layoffs connected to its NFL Network acquisition earlier this year. ESPN has not announced who, if anyone, will replace him alongside Carlin.
Carlin did not provide further details about the staffing changes during the broadcast. He said there was not much more he could say at the moment.
The uncertainty also extends to the format of the midday program. It is unclear whether Carlin will remain with a new partner or continue as a solo host.
Carlin Speaks From Experience
Carlin said he understood the difficult position facing colleagues affected by layoffs because he has experienced it himself. He described the situation as a painful reality across many industries, particularly media.
“Similar to a lot of colleagues, I have been in this position before,” Carlin said. “If you personally have been there before in your career, you know what it’s like.”
Carlin also made clear that his reaction was personal as well as professional. “I love him,” he said of Scott, adding, “For so many people, this is a very tough day.”
Scott Built a Long ESPN New York Run
Scott joined ESPN New York in 2017 after working as an NFL analyst for CBS from 2013 to 2017. His early ESPN New York appearances included The Michael Kay Show and Humpty & Canty.
He became a full-time host in 2020, first teaming with Alan Hahn. In 2025, Scott moved to his current partnership with Carlin on Bart & Carlin.
According to barrettmedia.com, Carlin and Scott had worked together more than once during their time at ESPN New York. That history gave Carlin’s on-air response added weight as the network’s next move remains unresolved.
