Solemn Stephen A. Smith Opens ESPN 'First Take' In Wake Of Shocking Molly Qerim Exit

Solemn Stephen A. Smith Opens ESPN ‘First Take’ In Wake Of Shocking Molly Qerim Exit

Updated –Sep 16, 2025

We may use AI tools to support content creation and editing. While we aim for accuracy via strict editorial standards, readers should independently verify important information. Ads on our site are served by Google AdSense and are not controlled or influenced by our editorial team.

Stephen A. Smith appeared solemn on Tuesday morning as he uncharacteristically opened ESPN’s “First Take”, a role that Molly Qerim has done for nearly a decade.

“She has been an enormous part of our success for a decade. … She did it with dignity, class, and kindness to say the least. We’ll miss her and wish her every blessing on her future.”

–@stephenasmith with a message for @MollyQerim as she announced she will be departing from… pic.twitter.com/pmVRwWg1dj

— First Take (@FirstTake) September 16, 2025

Smith thanked her for being a friend and an “enormous part of our success.”

In recent hours, news has broken that Qerim plans to leave ESPN at the end of the year when her contract is up. ESPN reportedly offered her an extension which she did not accept.

Many expected to see Qerim at the helm for a few more months, but given Smith’s opening of today’s show, it doesn’t appear that will be the case.

Molly Qerim Brought Decorum To Sometimes Chaotic “First Take” Chatter

Qerim was a masterful “First Take” moderator who often intervened in a classy and respectful way to keep the conversation flowing in the right direction.

She is knowledgeable, articulate, and will be difficult to replace on the longrunning show.

Molly Qerim confirmed her exit from First Take and ESPN on her IG story in this heartfelt message ♥️ https://t.co/rDflQlSF53 pic.twitter.com/GjBUS5HpTz

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 16, 2025

Qerim, 41, shared her gratitude for being a part of “First Take” for all of these years and encouraged fans to “stay tuned” indicating that it is not the last we will see and hear from her.

ESPN’s Personnel Changes Continue

A week after locking down “PTI” and Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon for three more years, this is a massive blow for ESPN.

In my opinion, Qerim, who had been a part of ESPN since 2006, is as significant a loss as Suzy Kolber was when ESPN let her go in 2023.

Thankfully Laura Rutledge and Mina Kimes are still with the network; otherwise, there would be more doom and gloom today for those of us who love strong female sports personalities.