As they get older, the obits are basically written. Then when it happens, they don’t need to scramble for quotes, stories, recaps, etc. they’ve got it there and they can take advantage of the surge in interest.

I think Bill Simmons mentioned it in a podcast once that ESPN is ready for when Michael Jordan dies, or Jack Nicklaus, etc.

It makes sense. I guarantee the Deseret News has President Nelson’s obit ready, for example.