Cari Champion has been a prominent figure in sports journalism and television for years.
Recently, however, she has found herself in the spotlight for a different reason.
Her role as a co-host of CNN’s “Austin’s New Year“ alongside Sara Sidner and Harry Enten on December 31, 2024, sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many viewers expressing disappointment in the hosting lineup and their handling of the event.
The event was meant to ring in the New Year for the Central Time Zone, featuring live music, food trucks, and fireworks in Austin, Texas.
However, some viewers took to Twitter to voice their discontent, accusing the hosts of “talking over all the talent” and calling their performance “unprofessional.”
One user tweeted,
“CNN’s Sara Sidner, Harry Enten, and Cari Champion talking over all the talent yapping during the countdown… this was so unbelievably unprofessional. It’s ridiculous.”
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Another remarked on the chemistry of the hosting trio, suggesting replacements,
“Instead of Cari Champion & Sara Snider; keep Harry Enten & get Kaitlan Collins (who are much closer in age) & maybe even Abby Phillip as well. Would bring back those Don & Brooke vibes.”
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While criticism was rampant, some comments reflected a longing for past CNN hosts like Don Lemon, whose presence many felt brought vibrancy and familiarity to the show.
Anyone is watching again Sara Sidner and Cari Champion? I DON’T! ONCE AGAIN, it’s not the same anymore without Don Lemon! Sorry guys! Nobody is watching! It’s so damn boring! #CNNNYE pic.twitter.com/5PMEmsoaf1
— Jose Aguirre 🇲🇽🇺🇦🇮🇱 (@JoseDCshoeCO) January 1, 2025
This backlash underscores the challenges faced by seasoned hosts like Cari when stepping into new roles outside their usual domains.
Cari Champion’s Stellar Career
Despite the recent criticism, Champion’s career is a testament to her skills and resilience.
Her career began in local news before she made her mark in sports journalism.
Champion first gained national attention as a reporter for the Tennis Channel.
She later joined ESPN and became the host of the popular debate show First Take, moderating discussions between Stephen A. Smith and Skip Bayless.
After leaving First Take, she anchored SportsCenter and hosted various ESPN programs.
Her ability to handle high-pressure situations and engage in conversation made her a sports media household name.
In 2020, she teamed up with Jemele Hill for the Vice TV show Cari & Jemele (Won’t) Stick to Sports, which tackled sports, social issues, and pop culture.
Currently, she hosts The Cari Champion Show on Amazon Prime Video’s Sports Talk and also has her own podcast show, Naked With Cari Champion.
Cari Champion Was Allegedly In A Relationship With Ryen Russillo
When it comes to her personal life, Cari Champion has kept much of it private.
As of now, there are no confirmed reports about her current boyfriend or relationship status.
Champion has previously spoken about her focus on her career, often choosing to keep her personal life out of the public eye.
While rumors about her dating life have occasionally surfaced, she has never publicly confirmed any romantic relationships.
This discretion has only fueled curiosity among fans and followers.
At one point, her name was linked with fellow media professional Ryen Russillo during their time at ESPN.
While Champion is vocal about professional issues and social justice causes, her silence about her personal relationships adds an air of mystery to her public persona.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Cari Champion was born on June 1, 1978.
- She attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
- In 2007, she was dismissed from WGCL-TV following allegations of using profanity on air.
