From OutKick · Bobby Burack · · 1m 30s
Dan Le Batard falsely claims ESPN hires only white people
Le Batard falsely claims ESPN hires only white people after layoffs, but ESPN's hiring now includes 50% white talent.
In brief
Le Batard falsely claims ESPN hires only white people after layoffs, but ESPN's hiring now includes 50% white talent. ESPN has hired more diverse talent since 2020, but Le Batard selectively highlights white hires to claim racial bias. Originally reported by OutKick.
Le Batard's claim
Le Batard claims ESPN hires only white people after George Floyd, listing Joe Buck, Pat McAfee, and others as top earners.
“Since George Floyd, the company of ESPN and the country of the United States were promising some sort of change over the last five years.”
ESPN's reality
ESPN's highest-paid employee is Stephen A. Smith, a black commentator with a $100 million five-year contract extension.
“Last year, Smith signed a five-year, $100 million contract extension with the company.”
Hiring shift
After George Floyd, ESPN promoted mostly black employees, but now hires 50% white talent.
“ESPN has since recognized that this overtly racist approach was not sustainable.”
Le Batard's hypocrisy
Le Batard's company has only one black employee, while he criticizes ESPN for hiring white talent.
“You own your own media company, yet just one of your nearly 40 employees is black.”
Selective focus
Le Batard ignores black ESPN hires like Malika Andrews and Mina Kimes, who are now top talent.
“ESPN's most prominently promoted talent over the past year includes McAfee, Stephen A. Smith, and Mina Kimes.”
Hypocrisy history
Le Batard has employed Howard Bryant, arrested for domestic violence, and avoided asking Kamala Harris' husband about allegations.
“He has repeatedly declared zero tolerance for violence against women, despite once employing Howard Bryant.”
ESPN's diversity
ESPN now hires 50% white talent, including Joe Buck and Pat McAfee, after a shift from racial bias.
“ESPN has since recognized that this overtly racist approach was not sustainable.”
Le Batard's silence
Le Batard has not responded to OutKick's questions about his company's diversity and ESPN hires.
“Le Batard did not respond as of publication.”
False claim
Le Batard falsely claims ESPN hires only white people, ignoring black talent and his own company's lack of diversity.
“Dan Le Batard is a liar. He should not be taken seriously.”
Dei impact
ESPN executives may reconsider DEI priorities if they take Le Batard's claim seriously.
“Given their history, we wouldn't doubt it.”
The one thing
ESPN has hired more diverse talent since 2020, but Le Batard selectively highlights white hires to claim racial bias.
