Sports broadcaster Pat McAfee has revealed that he and his family have been subjected to death threats and abusive messages, a disclosure that has drawn widespread concern from fans.
The host of The Pat McAfee Show – which is licensed to ESPN – shared his frustration during a recent episode, explaining that the hostility directed toward him had reached a personal and alarming level.
McAfee, 38, is known for his outspoken style and humor, traits that have made him both popular and polarizing within sports media. During the broadcast, he made light of the vitriol but acknowledged the toll it has taken.
“I just got done with a little morning workout,” he explained. “It was nice to read those comments. I’d just like to let all you old [critics] know, I hate you too.”
His words, part sarcasm and part exhaustion, revealed the strain behind his normally high-energy persona. The former NFL punter also expressed irritation with what he described as persistent criticism from “old ESPN people” and “old white people,” suggesting that resistance within the network has become a recurring challenge.
While McAfee has credited many of his ESPN colleagues for their support, his remarks hinted at deeper internal tensions.
Allegations of sabotage and ongoing safety concerns
McAfee went further, accusing unnamed individuals within ESPN of attempting to undermine his work by leaking inaccurate ratings data.
He suggested that former ESPN executive Norby Williamson may have been involved, characterizing the actions as a “sabotage attempt” that has persisted throughout the current season. ESPN has not issued a public response to those allegations.
The disclosure of death threats has shifted the conversation from creative disagreements to personal safety. McAfee stated that his family, including his young daughter, had been targeted with threatening messages online.
The revelation prompted an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues, with many condemning the harassment and urging stronger safeguards for public figures facing digital abuse.
Despite the controversy, McAfee remains an integral part of ESPN‘s programming. His energetic presence on College GameDay and his growing influence on digital sports broadcasting have made him one of the network’s most visible personalities.
However, the combination of public criticism, internal friction, and safety concerns has intensified scrutiny of ESPN‘s working culture and how it manages talent under its expanding media umbrella.
Will Pat McAfee continue in the role?
McAfee‘s future with the network appears secure for now, with ESPN continuing to promote his show and appearances.
He is expected to return to College GameDay this weekend when the crew covers Vanderbilt‘s matchup against Missouri.
For a broadcaster celebrated for his candor, the latest revelations underscore the darker side of online fame and the personal risks that accompany public exposure.
McAfee‘s remarks have turned attention not only to the culture within ESPN but also to the broader challenges of protecting high-profile media figures from targeted abuse.
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