In a move that's got Philadelphia's sports community buzzing, long-standing sports radio icon Howard Eskin has been handed a ban from Citizens Bank Park and the Philadelphia 76ers' training facility. A statement from Audacy, the media conglomerate that owns SportsRadio 94WIP where Eskin is a mainstay, confirms the suspension comes after an "unwelcome kiss" toward an Aramark employee. "We learned of an unwelcome kiss by Howard Eskin towards an Aramark employee at Citizens Bank Park," as NBC Philadelphia reported, quoting from Audacy's statement. Eskin is 73, and the incident, which happened in May, is currently under investigation not only by Audacy but also by Aramark and the Phillies.
Howard Eskin's career spans decades, with a start in 1986 at WIP, leading the launch of the station's first sports talk show. Throughout his career, he has broadcast nearly 7,000 shows and is described as a celebrated figure in Philadelphia sports. As someone who's help jump-start sports dialogue on the airwaves in the city, Eskin's presence is synonymous with Philly sports talk. According to CBS News Philadelphia, Eskin also has established credentials on television and currently contributes to FOX29's Eagles coverage. Eskin's son, Spike Eskin, figures into the narrative, making a return to WIP earlier this year, and is seemingly keeping a distance from the controversy encircling his father. "I do my best to a good person. Whether you like me (some) or dislike me (some as well), I will hope and expect it is based on what I do and say, and how I act," Spike posted on X, in a display of measured stoicism amidst the media storm.
I do my best to a good person. Whether you like me (some) or dislike me (some as well), I will hope and expect it is based on what I do and say, and how I act.
— Spike Eskin (@SpikeEskin) July 3, 2024
I will see you on the radio today, and the podcast late tonight. I appreciate the support, as always 🙏
The repercussions for Eskin's alleged inappropriate conduct have extended to a season-long prohibition from attending Phillies games at Citizens Bank Park, demonstrating the seriousness with which the organizations involved are treating the matter. Audacy's proactive statement on the immediate investigation and action underscores the zero-tolerance stance for workplace harassment. Yet, as of this write-up, ESPN reports that neither Audacy nor Eskin have come forth with responses to messages regarding the incident.
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