Erin Andrews will be replacing Pam Oliver as the NFL sideline reporter for Fox’s No. 1 team.
For her 20th season as a sideline reporter for Fox, Pam Oliver will be part of the No. 2 team. After this season, she will discontinue reporting on the sidelines to work on other pieces and productions for Fox Sports as part of a multi-year contract, as well as continue her role on Showtime’s “60 Minutes Sports.”
Oliver told Sports Illustrated that the news was “a little shocking,” expressing her love for the job and her reluctance to change. However, she also stated that Andrews, a younger reporter, would be more ideal for the target demographic.
“But I live in the real world and I know that television tends to get younger and where women are concerned,” Oliver said. “Just turn on your TV. It’s everywhere. And I’m not saying these younger girls don’t deserve a chance. I know I’ve had my turn.”
Oliver learned of the decision in a meeting with executives from Fox in April. She had initially been told that she would be taken off the sidelines immediately, but talked the executives into a 20th year as the reporter for the No. 2 team.
Andrews joined Fox from ESPN in 2012.