**
In a recent podcast, Stephen A. Smith opened up about the unexpected exit of his long-time co-host, Molly Qerim, from ESPN’s popular show, First Take. After a remarkable ten-year tenure, Qerim announced her departure in September 2025 and officially left the show at the end of the year. Her absence has undeniably left a void, and Smith expressed his sentiments regarding the situation during an episode of The White House With Michael Irvin.
A Difficult Goodbye
Molly Qerim, 41, made waves in the sports broadcasting world during her decade-long stint as host of First Take. Known for her engaging presence and sharp insights, she decided to step away from the programme, citing personal reasons that remain largely undisclosed. Smith, 58, described her departure as “incredibly unfortunate,” revealing that it stemmed from “issues that were foremost on her mind,” though he clarified that these matters were not related to their professional relationship.
“I can tell you that Molly and I worked together for 10 years—I loved Molly. I didn’t want her to leave,” Smith noted, highlighting the camaraderie they shared. While he praised Shae Cornette, her successor, for her impressive knowledge and performance, he conveyed that Qerim’s absence is felt on a personal level by many of her colleagues.
A Fond Farewell
In her farewell message, Qerim reflected on her time at First Take, describing it as an incredible chapter in her career. “Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honours of my career,” she stated, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside passionate colleagues and for the support of the fans. She acknowledged the lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences she gained throughout her journey.
Before her role on First Take, Qerim contributed to ESPN’s digital and mobile platforms, hosting shows like College Football Live and Fantasy Football Now from 2006 to 2010. After a brief hiatus from the network, she returned in 2015 to helm First Take, where she quickly became a prominent figure in sports media.
ESPN’s Response
In light of Qerim’s departure, Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, issued a statement praising her contributions to the network. He noted that Qerim had been a key driver of First Take’s success and commended her professionalism and kindness as a teammate. “We respect Molly’s decision, wish her the best in the future, and thank her for her extraordinary daily commitment to sports fans and ESPN,” Magnus said.
As the network transitions to new leadership with Cornette at the helm, it is clear that Qerim’s legacy will continue to resonate within the ESPN community.
Why it Matters
Molly Qerim’s exit from First Take marks the end of a significant era in sports broadcasting. Her departure not only highlights the challenges faced by on-air personalities but also underscores the evolving landscape of sports media. As viewers adjust to new faces and perspectives on the show, Qerim’s influence will undoubtedly linger, reminding us of the connections made and the impact of dedicated journalism in the sports world.
