Keyshawn Johnson Returns To ESPN Following The Death Of His Daughter

In mid-March Keyshawn Johnson received the worst news that a parent could ever receive. At the age of 25 years old , Johnson's daughter, Maia Johnson, passed away. The former NFL wide receiver and current radio host took to Twitter to let his listeners and fans know the tragic news.

"It is with incredible sadness that I have to share the news about the passing of my beautiful daughter, Maia. Maia, as my first born child, has been the joy of my, and her mother, Shikiri's, life," he wrote.

"She came into our lives just as we were both coming of age as adults and has been a constant beloved presence for both of us. We are heartbroken and devastated by her loss. Shikiri, Maia's siblings, our family and me appreciate your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time."

Immediately after learning of his daughter's passing, Johnson opted to step away for his role as radio host and NFL analyst with ESPN. During his absence, Bart Scott, Alan Hahn and a number of other ESPN personalities filled in for the popular media personality. After a four-week absence, Johnson returned to his role at the sports network.

"I had to get back. For me, it was one of those [things] where I was out [for] three weeks or so, but I needed to get back after passing of my daughter. It was one of those deals where I needed to get back and get my mind on something other than my daughter's passing every day, all day long," he told his listeners.

He is not the only member of his radio show to miss time as of late. His co-host, Zubin Mehenti, took a brief break from his role at ESPN due to diabetes complications. Johnson's other co-host, Jay Williams, is also missing time to celebrate the birth of his second child. The trio hopes to be back in studio together later this month.

Photo Credit: Getty Images


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