Kate Fagan has long been recognized as one of the sharpest voices in sports journalism. From her early days at ESPN to her best-selling books and popular essays, her insights have shaped how fans, athletes, and the industry itself view sports. Recently, Fagan’s return to ESPN’s iconic program 'Around the Horn' has reignited interest in her dynamic career.
Starting her career in print journalism, Kate Fagan quickly rose to prominence with her incisive reporting and unique perspectives. She became a mainstay at ESPN, contributing to ESPN.com, espnW, and ESPN The Magazine. Her candid analysis and storytelling ability led to regular appearances on shows like 'Around the Horn' and 'Outside the Lines.'
Fagan stepped away from ESPN in 2018 but did not slow down. She continued to write, releasing new works and engaging with audiences on various platforms. Her recent novel, “The Three Lives of Cate Kay,” has received much attention from both critics and fans.
In May 2025, 'Around the Horn' announced its final run after more than two decades on air. As part of its farewell, the show invited back many beloved panelists, including Kate Fagan. Her involvement is highlighted alongside Jemele Hill, another influential sports commentator, who both appeared for a memorable final episode. This reunion showcased the significant contributions Fagan made during her years on the program.
For a breakdown of Fagan's impact and her return to 'Around the Horn,' check out the detailed coverage at Awful Announcing. This source offers more on the celebration and nostalgia surrounding the ESPN classic.
Kate Fagan has also frequently addressed topics like inclusion, gender, and identity in sports. Her work transcends typical sports reporting, focusing instead on the personal stories and systemic challenges within athletic communities. This commitment to thoughtful analysis is part of what made her return to 'Around the Horn' so anticipated.
For additional perspectives on the changing dynamics at ESPN, including the invitation of high-profile commentators like Jemele Hill, you can read more at OutKick’s analysis. The article explores broader conversations within sports media and company culture.
Kate Fagan’s career demonstrates the evolving role of journalists in shaping not just sports coverage, but social conversations at large. Her return to 'Around the Horn' was not just a nod to her contributions, but also a reminder of the value diverse voices bring to sports journalism.
To see how ESPN commemorated the return of both Fagan and Jemele Hill, Mens Journal offers additional coverage of the one-day event.
Kate Fagan’s story in sports media is far from over. Her insightful coverage, willingness to challenge norms, and ability to connect with audiences have earned her a permanent place among the most respected figures in sports journalism. As 'Around the Horn' concludes a historic run, Fagan’s legacy with the show—and with fans—continues to inspire a new generation of storytellers and viewers.