ESPN Legend Lee Corso Unveils Secret Message to Fans Amid Retirement Announcement

What’s a sports show without a bit of personality? And when it comes to personality, almost none have been as iconic as Lee Corso on “College GameDay.” After nearly four decades of insights, headgear picks, and that signature line, “Not so fast, my friend,” what happens when the music slows and the lights begin to dim?

As it turns out, the final August 30th “College GameDay” will be a poignant end of an era. It’s like saying farewell to a beloved character in your favorite sports drama—yet, Corso isn’t just leaving the stage; he’s at peace with his grand exit. You can almost hear the collective sigh from every college football fan across the nation, a mixture of nostalgia and admiration for a true legend of the game. And while we’ll miss his unique contribution to pre-game banter, the respect for his decision to retire, especially as it’s so gracefully handled by ESPN, is palpable. From start to finish, Lee Corso’s journey has been a masterclass in how to leave an indelible mark on sports broadcasting. LEARN MORE.

After spending nearly 40 years with ESPN and “College GameDay,” Lee Corso has decided now is the right time for him to retire. 

ESPN announced on Thursday that Corso’s final “College GameDay” appearance will come on Aug. 30. It’ll most likely be the last time we see a headgear pick made on the popular college football show. While fans will miss hearing him say “not so fast, my friend,” at least a couple of times every Saturday, they’re just glad the former coach is going out on his own terms.

On Friday afternoon, ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit called Corso to let him know that fans were paying tribute to him on social media. Before they hung up, the legendary “College GameDay” analyst delivered a heartfelt message to everyone who has supported him over the years. 

“Hey Kirk can you put up on your Facebook or Twitter or whatever it is how much I appreciate all the well wishes-it really means a lot to me,” Corso told Herbstreit. 

Herbstreit then revealed that Corso is “at peace” with his decision to walk away from broadcasting. 

“It’s hard to let go I’m sure-but he really sounds like he’s at peace and it’s the right time,” Herbstreit said. “God bless him-he’s the best.”

Herbstreit has been by Corso’s side throughout their time together on “College GameDay.” He had nothing but great things to say about his colleague earlier this week.

“I just wanted to say I love you. I thank you for so many lessons you taught me. Almost 30 years together. I’ve enjoyed sitting next to you, watching you do your thing – so much fun,” Herbstreit said in a video shared on X. “You had so many great moments on and off the show. This is a celebration for everything you did for the sport and for College GameDay. You’re an icon, you’re a once-in-a-lifetime broadcaster. It’s been a special time for all of us to watch you do your thing.

“You and I have had a special bond and always will. I just wanted to say I appreciate you and I love you. I’ve enjoyed being your teammate throughout all these years. You’ve earned this retirement, man. Congratulations! I hope you’ll still be with us and come around in the fall on Saturdays. I love you, buddy.”

The college football world will definitely miss seeing Corso every Saturday on ESPN. 

Related: ESPN Receiving Praise For ‘Graceful’ Lee Corso Decision