Who Will Replace Molly Qerim on ESPN's First Take?

This week, the sports television landscape was shaken by the unexpected resignation of Molly Qerim, the long-time host of ESPN's "First Take". After a decade with the network, Qerim announced her departure via an Instagram Story, leaving many to speculate about the future of the show and her potential replacements. Her exit follows reported tensions during contract negotiations, highlighting the challenges faced by prominent sports personalities in the industry.

Last updated: 01 November 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from Molly Qerim's Departure

• Molly Qerim has resigned from ESPN after ten years, surprising fans and colleagues.
• Stephen A. Smith, her co-host on "First Take", expressed shock over her decision.
• Qerim's resignation follows reports that she declined a new contract offer from ESPN.
• Potential replacements for Qerim include notable names within the ESPN network.
• Smith has taken over hosting duties temporarily while discussions around a permanent replacement unfold.

The Impact of Qerim's Exit on "First Take"

Molly Qerim's departure from "First Take" marks a significant turning point for the show. For the past decade, she has been integral to its dynamic, expertly moderating the often fiery debates led by Stephen A. Smith. Her ability to maintain structure during contentious discussions has been key to the show's success, making her exit all the more impactful.

Stephen A. Smith, who has been a dominant figure on the show, described Qerim's resignation as a "shock". He mentioned that the decision was abrupt, occurring during ongoing contract negotiations, and that ESPN was keen on retaining her. While Smith has taken over hosting duties in the interim, there are pressing questions about who will step into Qerim's shoes permanently.

Understanding the Context of the Departure

Qerim's resignation comes at a time of increased scrutiny and competition in sports media. ESPN has faced challenges from various platforms, and retaining top talent is crucial for maintaining its audience. The negotiations surrounding Qerim's contract reportedly revealed significant differences in expectations, leading to her decision to leave the network by the end of her current contract in 2025.

Potential Replacements for Molly Qerim

As ESPN looks for a new host for "First Take", several candidates have emerged who may fit the role. Each brings unique strengths and experiences that could revitalise the show.

Stephen A. Smith

Having temporarily filled in as host, Stephen A. Smith is a natural choice. However, his existing commitments and high-profile status as a co-host complicate the prospect of him taking on the role permanently. His annual earnings of nearly £40 million underscore his importance to ESPN, but the show would benefit from another strong voice to balance his presence.

Courtney Cronin

Cronin is an award-winning journalist known for her NFL coverage. She has filled in for Qerim on various occasions and has proven her capability in a hosting role. Her journalistic background could offer a fresh perspective to "First Take" while maintaining the show's competitive edge.

Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo

While Russo is a familiar face on the show, his louder-than-life debating style raises questions about his suitability as a permanent host. His chemistry with Smith is undeniable, but a more traditional hosting role may not align with his personality.

Monica McNutt

McNutt has gained popularity as a basketball analyst and has previously filled in for Qerim. Despite a minor mishap regarding a jersey mistake, her rapport with Smith during discussions indicates she could be a strong candidate. Her experience across multiple ESPN platforms makes her a versatile option.

Shae Cornette

Cornette has been a consistent presence on "SportsCenter" and has demonstrated her ability to engage audiences effectively. Her experience in both television and radio shows that she can adapt to various formats, making her a strong contender for the hosting role.

Charly Arnolt

Previously a favourite on ESPN, Arnolt's departure to OutKick in April 2023 means she may not be available for the role. However, her past experience covering high-profile sports events could make her a desirable candidate if circumstances change.

Christine Williamson

Williamson has made a name for herself with her engaging personality and strong social media presence. Her skills in front of the camera across various ESPN formats make her a compelling choice for "First Take", appealing to a younger audience.

The Future of "First Take"

As ESPN navigates this transition, the future of "First Take" remains uncertain. With Smith at the helm for now, the network must consider not only the immediate need for a host but also the long-term vision for the show. The right choice could reinvigorate the programme, attracting new viewers while retaining loyal fans.

Smith's recent contract renewal highlights ESPN's investment in his role, but the show relies on a partnership that balances his commanding presence with another strong host. This decision will be crucial in determining the show's direction moving forward.

What Lies Ahead for Qerim and ESPN?

As Qerim embarks on a new chapter, the sports media landscape will be watching closely. Her departure is not just a loss for "First Take" but a significant event for ESPN as a whole. The network will need to adapt to the changing dynamics within its programming and respond to audience expectations.

Qerim's future plans remain largely unknown, but her experience and popularity in sports media make her a valuable asset wherever she chooses to go next. Meanwhile, ESPN must act swiftly to ensure "First Take" continues to thrive in a competitive market, and the choice of a new host will be pivotal in shaping the show's future.

FAQs

Why did Molly Qerim leave ESPN?

Molly Qerim left ESPN after reportedly declining a new contract offer during negotiations. Her departure was unexpected and has raised questions about the future of "First Take".

Who is Stephen A. Smith?

Stephen A. Smith is a prominent sports commentator and co-host of "First Take" on ESPN. He is known for his passionate debates and has been with ESPN for many years, earning significant annual compensation.

What will happen to "First Take" after Qerim's exit?

The future of "First Take" is uncertain, with Stephen A. Smith currently stepping in as host. ESPN is likely to seek a permanent replacement to maintain the show's dynamic and audience engagement.

Who are the potential replacements for Qerim on "First Take"?

Potential replacements include Courtney Cronin, Chris Russo, Monica McNutt, Shae Cornette, and Christine Williamson, each bringing unique strengths to the hosting role.

What is Molly Qerim's next move?

While Molly Qerim's future plans are not publicly known, her experience in sports media positions her well for potential opportunities in similar roles or other platforms.

As the sports media landscape evolves, the implications of Qerim's departure and the search for her replacement will likely shape the future of sports commentary. Will "First Take" continue to dominate the conversation, or will it face new challenges? #MollyQerim #FirstTake #SportsMedia