Stephen A. Smith’s Role In Molly Qerim’s Shocking Exit From ESPN
Stephen A. Smith's Role In Molly Qerim's Shocking Exit From ESPN
ESPN’s flagship morning debate show “First Take” experienced a significant shift this week when longtime host Molly Qerim departed the network after nearly a decade in the anchor chair. Qerim, who had co-hosted the program alongside Stephen A. Smith since 2015, announced her exit through social media, though the news emerged earlier than she had anticipated.
The departure marks another major change for the popular sports talk show, following the earlier exit of regular contributor Shannon Sharpe during the summer.
Qerim’s broadcasting career spans multiple networks, including previous roles at CBS Sports and NFL Network, before establishing herself as a prominent figure at ESPN where she originally worked from 2006 to 2010 before returning to helm “First Take.”
The Truth Behind Molly Qerim’s Exit
Contract negotiations appear to have been the primary factor in Qerim’s departure from First Take. Stephen A. Smith revealed that ESPN made efforts to retain the longtime host, but she ultimately chose to decline their extension offer.
“That story is for her to tell. Do I have an idea, of course I do. Am I gonna share it with you? No” 👀
– Stephen A. Smith on Molly Qerim leaving First Take
(h/t @ohnohedidnt24 )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 16, 2025
The decision caught many by surprise, including Smith himself. He acknowledged being unaware that Qerim was considering leaving the show after nearly a decade of hosting duties alongside him.
Key factors in the departure:
- Failed contract extension negotiations
- ESPN’s desire to keep Qerim on the program
- Qerim’s decision to end her tenure immediately
- Lack of advance warning to co-hosts
Smith maintained discretion regarding specific details, emphasizing that the full story belonged to Qerim to share. Industry sources confirmed that the host turned down ESPN’s renewal proposal, bringing her significant run on the sports debate show to an abrupt conclusion.
The shakeup leaves the network’s flagship morning program searching for a new direction.
Network’s Official Statement
ESPN’s leadership moved quickly to address Qerim’s departure through official channels. Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, issued a statement highlighting the host’s contributions to the network.
Magnus emphasized Qerim’s professional qualities and impact on First Take’s success. He specifically noted her ability to enhance the program through her composed demeanor and skilled moderation.
The executive also acknowledged her collaborative spirit behind the scenes. According to the statement reported by Sports Business Journal, Magnus described her as a supportive colleague who encouraged fellow team members.
ESPN’s response focused on respect for Qerim’s career decision rather than addressing specific reasons for her exit. The network expressed gratitude for her dedication to viewers and the sports broadcasting industry.
The official statement concluded with well-wishes for Qerim’s future endeavors. ESPN made clear that her nearly decade-long tenure earned her the organization’s ongoing support and appreciation.
A longtime sports reporter, Carlos Garcia has written about some of the biggest and most notable athletic events of the last 5 years. He has been credentialed to cover MLS, NBA and MLB games all over the United States. His work has been published on Fox Sports, Bleacher Report, AOL and the Washington Post.
