Linda Cohn is a name synonymous with sports broadcasting excellence. With a career spanning over four decades, she has established herself as one of the most respected anchors in the industry. Best known for her work on ESPN’s SportsCenter, Cohn has not only broken barriers but also set records, including hosting over 5,000 editions of the show—more than any other anchor in ESPN history.
Born on November 10, 1959, in Long Island, New York, Cohn’s journey to success was fueled by her passion for sports and an unwavering determination to carve a niche in a male-dominated industry. From playing ice hockey in high school to becoming a trailblazer in sports journalism, her story is one of resilience, dedication, and groundbreaking achievements.
Early Life & Background
Cohn’s love for sports was evident from a young age. Growing up in a Jewish household in Long Island, New York, she bonded with her father over televised games, which sparked her interest in sports journalism. Unlike many young girls of her time, Cohn was determined to play ice hockey—a sport dominated by boys. She was born on November 10, 1959, and her current age is 65 years old as of April 2025.
At just 15 years old, she joined a boys’ hockey league, playing alongside eight- and nine-year-old boys. Despite the age gap, she showcased remarkable skill as a goaltender, proving that gender was no barrier to her passion. Her perseverance paid off when she earned a spot on her high school’s boys’ ice hockey team, a rare achievement for a female athlete at the time.
Linda Cohn Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Linda Cohn |
| Nick Name | Linda |
| Profession | Anchor, Journalist, Sportscaster |
| Age | 65 years old |
| Date of Birth | November 10, 1959 |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Birthplace | Long Island, New York, USA |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Ex-Spouse | Stew Kaufman (Divorced in 2008) |
| Children | Sammy Kaufman, Daniel Kaufman |
| Siblings | Howard Cohn |
| Education | SUNY Oswego (B.A. in Arts and Communications) |
| Career Start | 1981 (WALK-AM radio station) |
| Major Employer | ESPN (Joined in 1992) |
| Notable Achievements | First full-time female sports anchor on national radio (ABC, 1987) |
| Books | Cohn-Head: A No-Holds-Barred Account of Breaking Into the Boys’ Club (2008) |
| Net Worth | Approx. $10 million USD |
| Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 57 kg (125 lbs) |
| @lindacohn/ | |
| Wikipedia | @Linda_Cohn |
Education & Athletic Achievements
Linda attended Newfield High School in Selden, New York, where she continued to hone her skills as a hockey player. Her dedication to the sport led her to SUNY Oswego, where she played as a goalie for the women’s ice hockey team.
In 1981, she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Communications, laying the foundation for her future in sports journalism. Her contributions to the university’s sports legacy were recognized when she was inducted into the Oswego State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006.
Her time at SUNY Oswego was instrumental in shaping her career, as she not only excelled academically but also proved her mettle as an athlete. The discipline and teamwork she learned on the ice would later translate into her success as a sports anchor.
Career Beginnings (1981-1987)
Linda took her first steps into sports journalism in 1981, when she landed a role as a sports anchor at WALK-AM, a radio station in Patchogue, New York. It was here that she began refining her skills in sports commentary, learning the art of engaging storytelling and audience connection.
Over the next six years, Cohn worked with several radio stations across New York, each experience adding depth to her knowledge and presence in the industry. A defining moment in her early career came in 1987, when she shattered stereotypes by becoming the first full-time female sports anchor on a national radio network—ABC. This milestone not only highlighted her talent but also positioned her as a trailblazer in the world of sports media.
Transition to Television (1988-1991)
With radio experience under her belt, Cohn expanded her reach into television in 1988, joining SportsChannel America, a network that, at the time, competed directly with ESPN. This move marked a pivotal shift in her career, transitioning from behind-the-scenes commentary to an on-camera presence.
In 1989, she briefly hosted a call-in radio sports show in New York, further solidifying her reputation as an engaging and insightful sports analyst. That same year, she joined SportsChannel America Network as a reporter, covering various sporting events and stories.
Cohn’s career continued to evolve when she relocated to Seattle, Washington, to work as a sports anchor at KIRO-TV. While in Seattle, she refined her television presence, developing a charismatic and dynamic on-screen personality that resonated with audiences.
ESPN Journey (1992-Present)
The 1990s marked the beginning of Cohn’s legendary ESPN tenure. She returned to the East Coast in 1992, joining ESPN’s flagship program, SportsCenter, in July of that year. Her debut was met with praise, and she quickly became a recognizable face on the network.
Despite her growing success, Cohn faced challenges in 1994, when ESPN expressed concerns about her on-air style. Determined to prove herself, she worked diligently to refine her delivery and confidence, ensuring she remained an integral part of the network.
Her resilience paid off, and she solidified her position as a leading sports anchor, contributing extensively to ESPN’s coverage of major sporting events. Over the years, her role expanded beyond SportsCenter, as she signed a contract extension in 2005, which included WNBA telecasts and broader reporting assignments.
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Author and Beyond (2008-Present)
Cohn’s influence extends beyond television screens—she is also an author. In 2008, she published her memoir, “Cohn-Head: A No-Holds-Barred Account of Breaking Into the Boys’ Club”, which provides an intimate look into her journey in sports broadcasting. The book details the challenges she faced as a female sportscaster in a male-dominated industry, offering readers a candid perspective on the struggles, triumphs, and defining moments of her career.
Her memoir resonated with aspiring journalists and sports enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes realities of sports media. Cohn’s storytelling is raw, insightful, and inspiring, making her book a must-read for anyone interested in sports journalism.
Personal Life & Kids
Despite her demanding career, Linda has always prioritized her family. She was married to Stew Kaufman for 28 years, but the couple divorced in 2008. Together, they have two children, Sammy Kaufman and Daniel Kaufman.
Balancing motherhood with a high-profile career in sports broadcasting was no easy feat, but Cohn managed to navigate both worlds with grace and determination. She has often spoken about the importance of family support, crediting her parents and siblings for encouraging her passion for sports.
Cohn’s brother, Howard Cohn, has also played a significant role in her life. Their shared love for sports strengthened their bond, and Howard has been a constant source of encouragement throughout her career.
Net Worth & Salary
Cohn’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. Her earnings come from her long-standing career at ESPN, book sales, endorsements, and public speaking engagements. As one of ESPN’s most recognizable anchors, Cohn reportedly earns $3 million annually. Her salary reflects her expertise, experience, and contributions to the network.
Beyond her ESPN salary, Cohn has also secured lucrative deals through her work in sports commentary, podcasting, and hockey analysis. Her financial success is a testament to her dedication and influence in the sports media industry.
Height & Physical Stats
Linda stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) and weighs approximately 125 lbs (57 kg). Her athletic background has contributed to her active lifestyle, and she continues to be involved in sports through her work in hockey coverage.
Her hazel eyes and blonde hair have been part of her signature look throughout her career. While she maintains a professional and polished appearance, her down-to-earth personality makes her relatable to fans and viewers.
Challenges & Controversies
Like many pioneers, Linda has faced challenges and setbacks throughout her career. In 1994, ESPN raised concerns about her on-air style, leading to a period of uncertainty. However, instead of backing down, Cohn worked tirelessly to refine her delivery, proving her worth and securing her place at the network.
In 2017, she faced a brief suspension after making comments about ESPN’s declining viewership. Despite this setback, she rebounded quickly, signing a new contract in 2018 that expanded her role in hockey coverage.
Social Media Presence
Linda has embraced social media as a platform to connect with fans and share her insights on sports. She is active on Twitter and Instagram, where she frequently posts updates about hockey, ESPN, and her personal life.
Her engaging and authentic presence on social media has allowed her to maintain relevance in the digital age. She interacts with fans, shares behind-the-scenes moments, and provides expert analysis on major sporting events.
Cohn’s social media influence extends beyond sports commentary—she also uses her platforms to advocate for women in sports broadcasting and support charitable causes.
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