Linda Cohn is a renowned American sports commentator, best known for her long-running career at ESPN. With over three decades in sports broadcasting, she has become a respected voice in the industry.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Linda Cohn |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | November 10, 1959 (65 years old) |
| Birthplace | Long Island, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 ft 4 in (1.65 m) |
| Profession | Sports Commentator, Journalist |
| Net Worth | $12 Million |
| Salary | $3 Million per year |
| Education | SUNY Oswego |
| Notable Work | ESPN’s SportsCenter |
| Years Active | 1981–present |
Early Life
Born on November 10, 1959, in Long Island, New York, Linda Cohn grew up with a deep love for sports. From a young age, she was fascinated by hockey, baseball, and football. Unlike many girls of her time, she was passionate about playing sports rather than just watching them.
Her parents, who were supportive of her interests, encouraged her to pursue her passion for sports journalism. Cohn attended SUNY Oswego, where she played as a goaltender for the women’s hockey team. This early exposure to competitive sports laid the foundation for her successful broadcasting career.
Career Debut
After graduating with a degree in communications, Linda Cohn began her career as a sports anchor in local radio stations. Her first major break came in 1981, when she landed a job at a Long Island radio station.
At the time, female sports broadcasters were rare, but Cohn’s deep knowledge of the game and engaging style helped her stand out. She soon moved on to bigger markets, covering sports news and providing commentary for various networks.
Breakthrough Years
Linda Cohn’s major breakthrough came when she became the first full-time female sports anchor on a national radio network in the mid-1980s. This accomplishment helped her gain recognition, and she quickly became a well-respected voice in sports broadcasting.
She worked for ABC Sports and other networks, covering major sporting events, including the NHL, NBA, and NFL. Her ability to provide insightful analysis and engage with sports fans made her a favorite among viewers.
ESPN and SportsCenter
Linda Cohn joined ESPN in 1992, marking the beginning of her long and successful tenure with the network. She became a regular host of SportsCenter, one of the most popular sports shows in the U.S.
Over the years, Cohn has hosted thousands of episodes of SportsCenter, making her one of the longest-tenured hosts in the show’s history. She has covered major sports events, including:
- Super Bowl
- Stanley Cup Finals
- NBA Finals
- World Series
Her expertise in hockey broadcasting is particularly notable, as she has remained a strong advocate for the NHL and its coverage on ESPN.
In 2016, she signed a multi-year extension with ESPN, solidifying her place as one of the most respected female sports commentators in history.
Memoir and Writing Career
In addition to broadcasting, Linda Cohn is also an author. In 2008, she published her memoir, Cohn-Head: A No-Holds-Barred Account of Breaking Into the Boys’ Club.
The book gives readers a behind-the-scenes look at her struggles and triumphs as a female sports journalist. She candidly discusses:
- The challenges of being a woman in sports broadcasting
- Her love for hockey
- Her journey from local radio to ESPN
The memoir received praise from critics and sports fans alike, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
What Is Linda Cohn’s Net Worth and Salary?
Linda Cohn has built an impressive career, earning a significant net worth over the years.
- Net Worth: $12 Million
- Annual Salary: $3 Million
Her wealth primarily comes from her long-standing career at ESPN, as well as her work in writing and endorsements. With a successful career spanning over 40 years, Cohn remains one of the highest-paid female sports commentators in the industry.
Personal Life and Relationship
Linda Cohn was previously married to Stew Kaufman, but the couple later divorced. She has kept most of her personal life private, choosing to focus on her career and love for sports.
She is a mother of two children and often shares her love for hockey with her family. Outside of work, Cohn enjoys watching NHL games, traveling, and playing sports.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Linda Cohn is 65 years old. Despite being in the industry for decades, she remains active and passionate about sports broadcasting.
- Height: 5 ft 4 in (1.65 m)
- Hair Color: Blonde
- Eye Color: Brown
She continues to maintain a professional yet approachable presence on screen, making her a favorite among sports fans.
Legacy and Influence
Linda Cohn’s impact on the sports broadcasting industry is undeniable. She has:
Paved the way for women in sports journalism
Hosted over 5,000 episodes of SportsCenter
Become one of the most recognizable sports commentators
Her dedication to her work and passion for sports have inspired countless aspiring broadcasters.
Conclusion
Linda Cohn is more than just a sports commentator—she is a trailblazer in sports journalism. With an illustrious career at ESPN, a best-selling memoir, and a lasting impact on the industry, she remains one of the most influential figures in sports broadcasting.
Whether she’s covering hockey, football, or basketball, Cohn continues to bring energy, expertise, and passion to sports fans worldwide.
FAQs
What is Linda Cohn’s net worth?
Linda Cohn has an estimated net worth of $12 million, primarily earned through her long-standing career at ESPN and other media ventures.
How much does Linda Cohn make per year?
Her annual salary is around $3 million, making her one of the highest-paid female sports commentators.
How long has Linda Cohn been with ESPN?
Linda Cohn joined ESPN in 1992 and has been a key figure on SportsCenter for over three decades.
Did Linda Cohn play sports before becoming a broadcaster?
Yes! She played ice hockey as a goaltender in college, making her one of the few sports commentators with actual playing experience.
Is Linda Cohn married?
She was previously married to Stew Kaufman, but they later divorced. She keeps most of her personal life private.
What is Linda Cohn’s most famous work?
She is best known for hosting ESPN’s SportsCenter and for her memoir, Cohn-Head: A No-Holds-Barred Account of Breaking Into the Boys’ Club.
Does Linda Cohn still work at ESPN?
Yes, she continues to be an active host and analyst on ESPN, particularly covering hockey and major sporting events.
What is Linda Cohn’s age and height?
As of 2025, Linda Cohn is 65 years old and stands at 5 ft 4 in (1.65 m) tall.
Has Linda Cohn won any awards?
While she hasn’t won major sports journalism awards, she is widely respected as a trailblazer for women in sports broadcasting.
Where can I follow Linda Cohn?
She is active on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where she shares insights about sports and her career.
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