Jay Harris Makes Emotional Return to SportsCenter After Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
After a month-long break from the spotlight, longtime SportsCenter anchor Jay Harris made a triumphant return to the network on Saturday. His comeback came just weeks after he revealed his diagnosis of prostate cancer and underwent surgery to remove his prostate. The event was met with an outpouring of support from colleagues, fans, and the broader sports media community.
Harris had taken time off following his surgery on June 10 to focus on recovery. During this period, he shared updates on social media, detailing his progress and reflecting on his mental state. In one update on June 23, he expressed relief that the surgery was successful. “My doctor said the surgery went really well,” he said. “So well, in fact, that the cancer that was in my prostate stayed there, didn’t spread to any surrounding areas.” He added, “So when he took the prostate out, he took that with it, so it’s all good.”
Harris also shared his excitement about returning to work. “The main thing is, we’re all good, and I’m looking forward to July 12, getting back to SportsCenter and getting back to work. Just home, resting up, chilling. Appreciate the prayers and the thoughts and the messages and the calls and the deliveries. Thank you so much. Appreciate all the love, and I will holler. Take care. Peace!”
On Saturday, Harris joined Brian Custer and Charles Barkley on SportsCenter, who were covering the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship. His return was celebrated by his co-hosts and colleagues. Barkley welcomed him back with heartfelt words: “I want to say, welcome back Jay Harris. One of my favorite people at ESPN. Glad to have Jay back.” Harris responded with warmth, saying, “Hey, that’s my guy, Charles Barkley. This is SportsCenter, glad to be back. Alongside my brother, Brian Custer, I am Jay Harris.” Custer echoed the sentiment, saying, “It’s great to have you back my brother. It’s great to see you back in that chair.”
Harris’s return generated significant attention across the sports media landscape. Colleagues and fans took to social media to express their support. ESPN NBA writer Marc Spears wrote, “Welcome back brother.” Brian Custer posted, “My guy is back #truefighter.” Otis Livingston, sports director at CBS2 in New York, wrote, “Two really great guys! Congratulations to both. Keep inspiring.”
Harris has been a vital part of ESPN programming for over two decades, and his return was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. His journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery has resonated deeply with many, showcasing his strength and resilience. In a recent post on X, he thanked everyone for their well-wishes. “So glad to be back!!! Appreciate all the well wishes!!!” he wrote.
Harris’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of health awareness and the support systems that help individuals navigate life-changing challenges. His return to SportsCenter not only marks a personal victory but also inspires others facing similar struggles.
