Following Molly Qerim’s announcement of her departure from ESPN’s “First Take,” viewers sought explanations from Stephen A. Smith. After an extended period of quiet, he has now offered some clarity regarding the circumstances of her exit.
Qerim began her professional journey at ESPN in 2006, later working with CBS and NFL Network, before rejoining the sports network in 2015 to serve as the lead host for “First Take.” Despite her strong performance in the position, she abruptly departed the network last September.
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“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world,” Qerim stated. “I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.”
Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, a former colleague of Qerim’s, put forth the idea that her departure from ESPN stemmed from an unwillingness to continue working under an expiring contract.
“I think she precipitated it. … I think, probably, she felt embarrassed,” Russo explained, as reported by the New York Post. He elaborated, “I didn’t talk to her about the specifics of why she decided as soon as it was in the Sports Business Journal, but that’s what I’m thinking — that she probably would have felt embarrassed if the world would have thought that she was a lame duck and she was still doing the show. So, that I think that probably had a little something to do with it.”
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ESPN’s ‘First Take’ broadcasts live from Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium with host Molly Qerim ahead of The Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic 2022. Friday, September 02, 2022.
During an appearance on “The White House with Michael Irvin,” Smith addressed Qerim’s abrupt exit. He indicated that an underlying issue was the reason for her leaving “First Take.”
“Molly decided that she wanted to leave, and she had some issues that I’m not going to discuss,” Smith stated. “It wasn’t with me, but she had some issues that was foremost on her mind and she made the decision to abruptly resign. When [her departure] happened, it was incredibly unfortunate. I can tell you that Molly and I worked together for 10 years — I loved Molly. I didn’t want her to leave.”
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What’s Molly Qerim up to now?
Weeks earlier, Qerim collaborated with ex-ESPN personality Max Kellerman to broadcast Zuffa Boxing’s inaugural event held in Las Vegas. Her co-commentators included Mike Coppinger, journalist Mark Kriegel, and former light heavyweight champion Antonio Tarver.
Since the Zuffa Boxing event, Qerim has maintained a relatively low profile. It’s possible she will secure another broadcasting role for the upcoming summer.
Presently, however, her return to a permanent broadcasting position remains uncertain.
This article was first published by The Spun on Feb 14, 2026, initially appearing in the Sports Media category. To make The Spun a Preferred Source, click here.