Stuart Scott’s legacy comes alive tonight in ESPN’s new 30 for 30 documentary titled “Boo-Yah: A Portrait of Stuart Scott,” premiering at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN and the ESPN app. The intimate film explores how the trailblazing SportsCenter anchor broke barriers, brought hip-hop culture to sports, and inspired millions during his legendary 21-year career at the network.

🔥 Quick Facts

Documentary Title: “Boo-Yah: A Portrait of Stuart Scott” premiering December 10, 2025
Runtime & Air Details: New 30 for 30 installment airs at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN app
Directed by: Andre Gaines, who crafted an intimate look at Scott’s revolutionary impact
Stuart Scott’s Legacy: Born July 19, 1965, Scott died January 4, 2015 at age 49 after a 7-year cancer battle

Breaking Barriers on SportsCenter

Stuart Scott revolutionized sports broadcasting by bringing authenticity, personality, and hip-hop culture to SportsCenter during a time when the sports media landscape was rigidly formal. Unlike traditional anchors, Scott infused his commentary with catchphrases and a distinctive style that resonated with viewers across generations.

His 21-year tenure at ESPN made him one of the network’s most recognizable broadcasters. Scott didn’t just read scores—he brought energy, emotion, and cultural relevance to every game, proving that authenticity and professionalism could coexist in sports journalism.

The “Boo-Yah” Phenomenon That Changed Everything

Scott popularized the iconic catchphrase “Boo-Yah!” which spread far beyond sports into mainstream American culture. Though he never claimed to invent the phrase, Scott was the person who brought it to television, making it synonymous with big plays and exciting moments in sports.

The phrase became so embedded in popular culture that it transcended sports and became a symbol of enthusiasm and celebration. Tonight’s documentary, named “Boo-Yah,” pays homage to this catchphrase that defined an era and helped reshape how sports were presented on television.

Documentary Element
Details

Filmmaker
Andre Gaines (Director)

Air Date & Time
December 10, 2025 at 9 p.m. ET

Platforms
ESPN, ESPN app, and ESPN+ streaming

Documentary Series
Part of ESPN’s Emmy Award-winning 30 for 30 series

Fighting Cancer With Courage and Grace

Scott’s battle with appendiceal cancer—a rare and aggressive form of the disease—became part of his legacy. Though he faced the illness for seven years, Scott continued to work and inspire others. In 2014, he was honored at the ESPY Awards with the prestigious Jimmy V Award for his courageous fight against cancer.

This recognition came less than six months before his death on January 4, 2015. Scott’s resilience and determination during his health battle exemplified the same spirit that defined his career—unwavering authenticity and an refusal to let obstacles dim his light.

“Yeah, I didn’t invent Boo-Yah, I just was the person who brought it to TV.”

— Stuart Scott, ESPN SportsCenter Anchor

Why Stuart Scott’s Story Matters Tonight?

Stuart Scott’s impact extends far beyond sports broadcasting. He proved that breaking barriers, embracing cultural authenticity, and changing the game didn’t require compromising quality or professionalism. His influence shaped how modern sports media operates today, from the way anchors present themselves to the cultural references woven into commentary.

The premiere of “Boo-Yah: A Portrait of Stuart Scott” tonight allows a new generation to understand why Scott mattered so deeply. For fans who grew up watching him, it’s a chance to celebrate a genuine pioneer. For younger viewers, it’s an introduction to the man who fundamentally changed American sports television.