Jemele Hill is an acclaimed American sports journalist whose career spans over two decades, marked by her insightful commentary and fearless opinions. She began her journey as a general assignment sports writer for the Raleigh News & Observer in 1997, before moving on to the Detroit Free Press from 1999 to 2005, where she covered significant events such as the 2004 Summer Olympics and Michigan State football and basketball. Hill’s early work laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in sports journalism.
In 2006, Hill joined ESPN as a national columnist for ESPN.com, quickly becoming a prominent voice in sports media. Her dynamic presence on television was solidified through appearances on various ESPN programs, including SportsCenter and First Take. In 2013, she co-hosted the show Numbers Never Lie, which was later rebranded as His & Hers alongside Michael Smith. Their engaging chemistry and unique approach to sports discussion garnered a dedicated following, leading to their anchoring of the 6 p.m. edition of SportsCenter from 2017 to 2018.
Hill’s career has not been without controversy; however, she has consistently used her platform to address critical social issues. In 2017, she won an Emmy Award for Outstanding News Special for her work on The President and The People, showcasing her ability to tackle complex topics with depth and clarity. After leaving ESPN in 2018, she became a contributing writer for The Atlantic, where she continues to explore the intersections of sports, race, and culture.
In addition to her writing, Hill is a co-founder of Lodge Freeway Media and hosts the popular podcast Jemele Hill is Unbothered, which features in-depth conversations with influential figures across various fields. Her memoir, Uphill, published in 2022, reflects her journey and the challenges she has overcome. Hill’s commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering inclusivity in sports media has earned her numerous accolades, including the National Association of Black Journalists’ Journalist of the Year Award in 2018, solidifying her status as a leading figure in contemporary journalism.