Former Indianapolis Colts punter Pat McAfee experienced a tumultuous week, ignited by New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ false suggestion on the program that ABC talk show host Jimmy Kimmel would be implicated in documents related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. This led McAfee to issue an apology.
Shortly after extending his apologies, McAfee shifted his focus to Norby Williamson, a seasoned four-decade veteran at ESPN serving as its executive editor and head of event and studio production. Accusing Williamson of attempting to undermine his show, McAfee labeled him a “rat” during one of his broadcasts.
In response to McAfee’s claims, ESPN swiftly announced that McAfee’s show had garnered nearly 300 million views in December across all platforms. According to ESPN, the show has experienced a 23% increase from its inaugural month, boasting a daily audience of approximately 886,000.
- The show brought in 1.7 million total reach per show across all platforms in month of December – up 21% from September
- Viewers averaged 55.5 minutes of watch time per day
- Produced the most-watched college football alternate telecast since 2016 with Field Pass at the Rose Bowl
- The show is simulcast from noon – 2 p.m. ET on ESPN, ESPN on YouTube and ESPN+, with the final 2 – 3ish p.m. hour airing on ESPN+ and The Pat McAfee Show channel on YouTube presented by ESPN
Since its distribution began on September 7, as part of a five-year, $85 million licensing deal with the former NFL punter, ESPN has been airing McAfee’s show. The unfolding situation leaves uncertainty regarding how Williamson and other key figures at ESPN will address this recent conflict.
One thing remains certain: Pat McAfee is no stranger to controversy, bringing a hefty dose of it wherever he goes.
