ESPN anchor Jay Harris makes emotional return after devastating cancer battle

After revealing a shocking cancer diagnosis back in June, a popular ESPN anchor has made his return to television - and received a warm welcome from his colleagues.

Jay Harris, who has been with the company for over two decades, made his return to the 'SportsCenter' desk on Saturday.

Harris recently underwent surgery for prostate cancer last month, which was a successful procedure. 

In his first episode back, Harris was welcomed by 'Inside the NBA' star Charles Barkley, who left a video message for him.

Harris' co-host Brian Custer also welcomed the veteran broadcaster with a dap up on the desk. Custer reportedly served as a major help to Harris after undergoing a similar procedure.

'So glad to be back!! Appreciate all the well wishes!!!' Harris, 60, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Toward the end of June, Harris provided a positive update on his condition.

'My doctor said the surgery went really well – so well, in fact, that the cancer that was in my prostate stayed there,' the 60-year-old married father said in a self-shot social media video. 

'Didn't spread to any surrounding areas. So when he took the prostate out, he took that with it. So it's all good. 

'There are other details that I won't bore you with. The main thing is, we're all good and looking forward to July 12, getting back to SportsCenter, getting back to work.

'Just home, resting up, chilling,' he continued. 'Appreciate the prayers and the thoughts and the messages and the calls and the deliveries. Thank you so much. Appreciate all the love and I will holler.'

Harris has worked for ESPN since 2003 and has become one of the most recognizable faces on the network since his debut - having hosted 'SportsCenter' as well as 'Outside the Lines', 'NFL Live', 'Baseball Tonight', and 'First Take' in the past.