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Netflix Nears Deal to Make ESPN’s Elle Duncan the Face of Its Sports Coverage

The reported hire reflects Netflix’s shift from borrowing broadcasters to building a permanent live‑sports presence.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets, citing The Athletic, report Duncan is close to becoming Netflix’s first full‑time on‑air sports personality, though no contract has been signed.
  • Her agreement is expected to be non‑exclusive, making Netflix her priority while allowing appearances elsewhere and potentially in non‑sports programming.
  • Sources describe pessimism about Duncan remaining in her current near‑daily ESPN role, with discussions focused on a reduced assignment covering women’s basketball.
  • The move follows Netflix’s growing rights slate that includes NFL Christmas Day games, MLB Opening Day and the Home Run Derby, FIFA Women’s World Cups, and high‑profile boxing cards.
  • The strategy aims to lessen reliance on talent borrowed from rival networks; Netflix previously explored hiring ESPN’s Malika Andrews before she re‑signed with ESPN.