Rich Eisen pays tribute to Stuart Scott in emotional 'SportsCenter' appearance: 'He should be in that chair'
After 22 years away, Eisen made his return to "SportsCenter" Monday night. The program was a nostalgic tribute to anyone who grew up listening to Eisen deliver the news and call highlights on a nightly basis.
But there was clearly one major omission from Eisen's return. The 56-year-old host anchored the program by himself. Scott died in 2015 after a battle with cancer. His absence was certainly felt during the show, and Eisen would make sure fans were aware of that fact.
Near the end of the program, Eisen delivered an emotional tribute to his friend and colleague. The piece opened with some old ESPN commercials showing off Eisen and Scott's friendship. A clearly-emotional Eisen then monologued about Scott.
Near the end of his tribute, Eisen's voice broke as he said Scott "should be in that chair, with me, with us, tonight."
Eisen hosted "SportsCenter" on Monday for the first time since leaving ESPN in 2003 for NFL Network. His return was made possible after ESPN acquired NFL Network in a broadcast deal in August. Eisen will remain with NFL Network, but the deal will allow him to make appearances on ESPN from time to time.
During his tenure at the four-letter network, Eisen became one of its most popular and well-respected anchors. He often teamed with Scott — a star in his own right — to host "SportsCenter."
Scott remained at ESPN following Eisen's departure, and continued to be one of the most recognizable personalities on the network. In 2007, he was diagnosed with cancer. He went into remission after his initial diagnosis, but his cancer returned in 2011 and 2013. Scott made an appearance at the ESPY Awards in 2014, where he was honored. He died a few months later in 2015.
At the time of his death, Scott received tributes from many in the sporting world. His cadence, style and catchphrases made him one of the most beloved sports personalities around.
Eisen did a fantastic job anchoring "SportsCenter" on Monday. There's no doubt the program would have been even better had Scott been there too.
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