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Things are getting a bit awkward on ESPN’s First Take. On Monday, the Sports Business Journal reported that First Take host Molly Qerim would leave the show at the end of the year, following failed contract negotiations.
Hours after the report, Qerim posted a message on social media announcing she was leaving the show.
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take,” Qerim wrote on her Instagram Story on Monday. “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 did not appear on First Take this morning, which led to Smith addressing her exit.
“Good morning and welcome to First Take. Normally, our friend Molly Qerim would greet you. However, Molly announced last night she will be departing from ESPN. She’s hosted First Take for 10 years and elevated the show with her grace, her expertise and her incomparable kindness… we’ll miss her and wish her every blessing on her future.”
Stephen A. Smith: “Good morning and welcome to First Take. Normally, our friend Molly Qerim would greet you. However, Molly announced last night she will be departing from ESPN. She’s hosted First Take for 10 years and elevated the show with her grace, her expertise and her… pic.twitter.com/2aAmG8d2N7
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 16, 2025
ESPN’s president of content, Burke Magnus, released a statement after Qerim’s exit.
“Molly has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of ‘First Take’s’ success since joining as host a decade ago. She elevated the show with her poise, skill and professionalism, while supporting others as a kind and encouraging teammate.