I used to dress 'ugly' after being told my leather pants caused too much attention, says ESPN's Christine Williamson
Michael Green
Published Sep 27, 2026
ESPN analyst Christine Williamson has revealed she used to dress down for her early live TV appearances.
The sports anchor admitted she "dressed ugly" so people didn't think she was in sports journalism for the "wrong reasons."
4
4
4
Williamson is one of the network's rising stars and is a regular contributor to First Take and Get Up.
The former University of Miami volleyball player is known for her signature style and bold on-air outfits.
But the shaven-headed former Clemson alumni has revealed it wasn't always that way.
Speaking on Instagram, Christine explained: "This isn’t even a joke - when I started my career I used to try to dress ugly so people wouldn’t think I was in sports for the wrong reasons.
READ MORE ON ESPN PRESENTERS
"One time during my time at the Broncos I wore leather pants with an ankle-length sweater to “cover-up” and someone still told me I was getting too much attention from players 'bc[sic] of my leather pants'.
"It wasn’t because of my pants, Bob. IM JUST COOL and unfortunately, you’re not. Anyways - pretty girl era."
Christine has been with ESPN since 2019 and has built up a legion of adoring fans.
One of her 45k followers responded to the message: "I wish I could heart this post a thousand times over. THIS is so important!!!"
Most read in Sport
Another said: "You are an intelligent, beautiful bad*** QUEEN…so proud of you!! Keep being the best version of you!!"
While a third said: "It doesn't matter how you dress, sis. You are killing it out here for all young queens and kings. Showing them work hard to achieve your goals. Stay fly. Your swagger is one of one."
Williamson recently sat in for Molly Qerim as interim host of ESPN's hit show First Take.
She marshaled Stephen A. Smith and his rants, being dubbed "perfection" for her effortless broadcasting style.
4
