The American sports community is in an uproar after Molly Qerim, a familiar face on ESPN’s First Take, signed a massive contract with NBC Sports. But what shocked everyone more was not the contract, but the extremely harsh reaction from Stephen A. Smith, her longtime co-host — and a symbol of power at ESPN.
“I BUILT THIS SHOW!” — Stephen A. Smith fumes at Molly’s departure
According to inside sources, Stephen A. Smith was furious when he learned Molly was leaving ESPN to join NBC Sports in a deal rumored to be worth more than $20 million.
An insider recounted:
“Stephen felt betrayed. He believed that First Take was his brainchild, and that Molly had taken that show and used it to take it to the next level.”
In his personal podcast that aired immediately after the news, Stephen A. did not mention Molly by name, but his words made it clear who he was referring to:
“Some people forget who gave them their first chance. Sports television is not for the faint of heart.”
This statement immediately spread like wildfire, causing the keyword “Stephen A vs Molly” to climb straight to the top trending list in just 30 minutes.
Molly Qerim “Reacts with a light but sharp retort”
Not keeping quiet, Molly Qerim responded extremely subtly in an interview with NBC shortly after signing the contract.
“I appreciate every opportunity I’ve had at ESPN, but my career can’t stop at a round table. I want to challenge myself in a new environment — and NBC has given me that confidence.”
This seemingly light-hearted statement was seen by many as a subtle response to Stephen A., implying that she “owes” no one anything.
“ESPN is losing a lot of talent”
Media experts say the incident shows the fierce competition between major sports networks. In the past two years, ESPN has lost a series of famous talents — from Skip Bayless, Max Kellerman to Pat McAfee, who was rumored to want to leave.
A Sports Illustrated writer commented:
“If Stephen A. is the soul of ESPN, Molly Qerim is the glue that holds First Take together. Her departure could shake the show.”
On social media, thousands of viewers shared their regret:
“Without Molly, First Take will no longer be First Take.”
“Stephen A. may be good at debating, but Molly is the one who keeps the show breathing.”
Inside ESPN: Tensions Escalate
According to insiders at ESPN, the atmosphere between Stephen A. and the board of directors is getting heavy, as many believe he has “crossed the line” by publicly criticizing his colleagues. A source revealed:
“Some executives are not happy. They think Stephen A. is putting the network’s image in an awkward situation.”
There are even rumors that ESPN has asked Smith to temporarily not mention Molly Qerim on any program, to avoid escalating tensions between the two sides.
While ESPN is in turmoil, NBC Sports is popping champagne to celebrate. Recruiting Molly Qerim is considered a “golden move” to help NBC increase the appeal of the sports talk show segment, especially after she has become a favorite of millions of fans for her smart, sophisticated hosting style and the balance between two strong personalities — Stephen A. and the debate guests.
An NBC executive confidently declared:
“Molly is the face that brings the energy and professionalism that modern sports audiences love. She will be key in the rebuilding of NBC’s content.”
The end is not yet over…
In the midst of the storm, Stephen A. Smith continued to appear on the air as if nothing had happened — but his eyes, his way of speaking, and the long silences in the program made it easy for fans to sense: it was not over.
The question is being asked everywhere:
Or will the battle between the two “titans” of sports television continue to spread?
