How Did Stuart Scott Die? The ESPN Icon Remembered as Rich Eisen Breaks Down on Air

The beloved ESPN SportsCenter anchor Stuart Scott, known for his vibrant style and iconic catchphrases, died on 4 January 2015 after a long battle with cancer.

Nearly a decade later, his name is back in the spotlight after broadcaster Rich Eisen broke down on air during his emotional return to SportsCenter on 18 August 2025. The moving tribute has reignited memories of Scott's legacy and influence at ESPN.

How Did Stuart Scott Die?

Scott was first diagnosed with cancer in 2007 after doctors discovered the illness during an emergency appendectomy. His fight was marked by resilience as the disease recurred in 2011 and 2013. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, radiation and multiple surgeries, Scott continued his duties at ESPN, hosting shows and covering major sporting events.

He died in 2015 at the age of 49 from appendiceal cancer, a rare form of the disease. His determination to keep working while receiving treatment became part of his enduring legacy.

One of Scott's most memorable moments came at the 2014 ESPY Awards when he received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance. His speech remains one of the most cited in sports broadcasting: 'You beat cancer by how you live, why you live, and the manner in which you live. So live. Live. Fight like hell.' The words encapsulated his attitude towards life and inspired millions of viewers worldwide.

Rich Eisen's Emotional Return to ESPN

On 18 August 2025, Eisen returned to SportsCenter and paid tribute to his late colleague. The veteran broadcaster visibly fought back tears during the segment, pausing as he looked towards the chair where Scott once sat.

'It has been a blast being here tonight but, listen, we all know there should be someone else right here in this chair next to me,' he said, as reported by Sports Illustrated. 'Right there, as he was for my seven years in the role he referred to as "my TV wife." And that's my dear, late friend Stuart Scott who is indeed looking over my shoulder tonight.'

The broadcaster reflected on what Scott might have thought of current sports headlines, mentioning Bill Belichick coaching at Navy and LeBron James still playing at 40 with 40,000 career points.

The tribute quickly spread across social media, with viewers praising Eisen's honesty and recalling their own memories of Scott.

Reports from outlets confirmed Eisen was overcome with emotion and nearly broke down on air. The heartfelt moment trended widely, reminding audiences of the strong bond between the two broadcasters.

Stuart Scott's Legacy at ESPN

Scott joined ESPN in 1993 and became one of the network's most recognisable figures. His energetic delivery and integration of hip hop culture set him apart from his peers. Scott introduced a new voice to sports broadcasting, blending humour, cultural references and a fresh vocabulary that resonated with younger audiences.

His catchphrases, including 'Boo-yah!' and 'As cool as the other side of the pillow', became part of the sports lexicon and are still associated with ESPN today.

Scott's influence went beyond his on-air style. He broke barriers for diverse voices in the media and showed that sports commentary could reflect popular culture without losing professionalism.

After his death in 2015, tributes poured in from across the sporting world. Former President Barack Obama, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Tiger Woods were among those who praised his authenticity and impact.