In the "ESPN effect", leading sports media scholars examine ESPN and its impact on culture, sports journalism, audience, and the business of sports media. The final part of the book considers the future of ESPN, beginning with an interview with Chris LaPlaca, ESPN senior vice president. As the first academic text dedicated to the self-proclaimed "worldwide leader in sports", this book contributes to the growth of sports media research and provides a starting point for scholars examining the present and future impact of ESPN.