This Was SportsCenter: Craig Kilborn - Season 1, Ep. 6
Summary
Rich Eisen hosts season finale guest Craig Kilbourne, who recounts his transition from local TV to ESPN’s SportsCenter. They share anecdotes about working with Carl Ravitch, the show’s late-night culture, and Kilbourne’s humorous suspension for mocking colleagues on ESPN2. Kilbourne also discusses his departure for The Daily Show, including a pivotal conversation with Eisen and stories involving Clint Eastwood.
Topics discussed
Introduction and sponsor message
Welcome to the season finale with Craig Kilborn
How Craig got his start at ESPN via Dina Lohan
The Clint Eastwood and Dina Lohan connection story
Craig's audition tape and early Sports Center days
Memorable Sports Center segments and producer stories
Late night shifts and the 2:30 AM broadcast
Craig's comedic style and workplace dynamics
Makeup routines and transition to other networks
The Daily Show offer and ESPN suspension
Leaving ESPN for The Daily Show and CBS
Working with Dave Letterman and The Daily Show crew
Newsroom culture and colleague anecdotes
Commercial shoots and celebrity encounters
NBA expertise and closing thoughts
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