Overview
- ESPN’s Par-3 coverage, following Wednesday’s lighthearted contest at Augusta National, featured Jason Kelce, Kevin Hart, Pat McAfee, Bert Kreischer, and WWE’s The Miz, with Hart caddying for Bryson DeChambeau.
- Fans on social media blasted the broadcast for turning a tradition-steeped event into a sideshow, with some saying they tuned out after forced celebrity segments and rowdy on-course antics.
- Former ESPN anchor Trey Wingo criticized the strategy, saying it chases fringe viewers at the expense of loyal golf fans and could even jeopardize the network’s hold on Masters rights.
- Analysts noted Augusta National tightly controls its TV product and signs off on broadcast elements, which spreads responsibility for the celebrity push beyond ESPN.
- Jason Kelce’s return to future Masters coverage is uncertain, though he remains in ESPN’s NFL lineup, and outlets are watching for changes to how the tournament is presented.