ESPN+ Renews Kobe Bryant, Adds Peyton Manning to Roster


ESPN announced Wednesday that its video analysis show Detail will return for a second season on streaming service ESPN+, and that the network would add an NFL-themed show led by future Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning.

Detail launched last year with another future Hall of Famer, retired Lakers great Kobe Bryant. The show features Bryant breaking down NBA film. Bryant’s media company, Granity Studios, helps produce the show, and je will return to the program later in the year. An UFC-centric version of the show will also likely air after football season.

The new football broadcast will feature Manning’s insights and be produced in conjunction with NFL Films. ESPN president Jimmy Pitaro first revealed Detail’s expanded programming at the NeuLion Sports Media & Technology conference sponsored by Sports Business Journal.

“Peyton will break down NFL games week after week for eight episodes, and we couldn’t be more excited about that,” Pitaro said.

SportTechie Takeaway

Bryant’s Detail resonated even with active NBA players, which speaks to the sophistication of his analysis and his stature in the sport. Such high-level insight might not have broad appeal on say, a linear network, but is a perfect fit for a subscription OTT service like ESPN+.