2 hours ago
3
First Take host Molly Qerim is set to wave goodbye to ESPN following almost two decades with the network.
After reports emerged claiming she is leaving both First Take and ESPN altogether, Qerim took to Instagram on Monday night to confirm her impending exit from the popular sports talk show, which she has fronted with Stephen A. Smith since 2015.
The 41-year-old says she has decided to step away at the end of the year, coming as a huge shock to sports fans across the country.
While she only addressed her First Take departure in the post on her story, Qerim did not deny claims that she is also departing ESPN.
'Now that the news came out earlier than I intended, and not in the way I hoped...' she started the message.
'To my First Take family,' Qerim continued. 'After much reflection, I've decided it's time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.
First Take host Molly Qerim is set to wave goodbye to ESPN after almost two decades
Qerim has worked alongside Stephen A. Smith on the sports talk show for the last 10 years (Qerim and Smith, left, pictured with The Rock, right)
'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.
'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.'
She also suggested there is more news to come after ending the post with: 'Stay tuned :)'.
According to Sports Business Journal, Qerim was offered a new contract by ESPN this year, but she opted to turn it down and end her stint on the network.
She started off on the digital/mobile team back in 2006, before becoming a College Football Live host two years later.
The American TV personality also worked as a breaking news reporter for Fantasy Football Now on ESPN2, receiving an Emmy for her contribution to the show in 2008.
The American TV presenter first joined First Take as an interim host back in July 2015
Seven years later Qerim became the interim host of First Take when she replaced Cari Champion, who was promoted to ESPN's flagship SportsCenter show. Within a matter of months she then landed the gig on a full-time basis and never looked back.
Prior to joining ESPN, she also spent time with the NFL Network and CBS Sports Network.
Qerim, a Connecticut native, also graduated from her home state's university before making the move into broadcasting.
The talk will now turn to her replacement on First Take in 2026, while it remains to be seen what her next move will be.
