After a decade of hosting ESPN’s “First Take,” Molly Qerim has made the tough decision to move on. Stephen A. Smith confirmed this shocking news before Tuesday’s show.
On Monday night, Austin Karp of Sports Business Journal reported that Qerim would leave “First Take” at the end of the year. Smith, however, revealed that his longtime colleague isn’t waiting until January to leave the Worldwide Leader In Sports.
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“Last night she abruptly resigned as the host of the show. And to say that I’m quite sad about it is an understatement,” Smith said. “Molly is a friend. Molly is a co-worker. Molly is somebody that I have leaned on on many occasions in the past as she has done when it comes to me. We have been partners on the show for the last 10 years and a lot of times some of these things happen and it’s just uncomfortable to see.”
Smith then shared what he knows about Qerim’s exit. He revealed that she discussed a new deal with ESPN before walking away.
“The details, quite frankly, are none of ya’ll business, but it’s not as if I know all the details. There was a contract negotiation that was going on. ESPN certainly did not want to lose her, but in the end she made a decision to walk away from the show, effective immediately.”
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BROOKLYN, NY – JUNE 26: Stephen A. Smith looks on during the 2024 NBA Draft – Round One on June 26, 2024 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Luther Schlaifer/NBAE via Getty Images)Luther Schlaifer/Getty Images
What’d Qerim have to say about her departure?
Qerim, 41, first joined ESPN in 2006 before returning to host “First Take” in 2015. She confirmed her departure with a heartfelt statement on Instagram.
“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.
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“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.”
It’s unclear if Qerim will pursue another broadcasting gig. She’s an ambassador for the Boys and Girls Club of America and the Innocence Project, so maybe she’ll go down a different road for the next few years.
This story was originally reported by The Spun on Sep 16, 2025, where it first appeared in the Sports Media section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.