Molly Qerim leaves First Take and Stephen A. Smith loses his brake

After a decade of moderating one of the most intense sets in televised sports, Molly Qerim has decided to end her run on First Take. The host, who became the voice of reason among ESPN’s most explosive analysts, will step away from the show at the close of 2025. The news was confirmed by Firstsportz, citing Sports Business Journal sources that reported Qerim declined a contract extension offered by the network.

For ten years, Molly Qerim shared the screen with Stephen A. Smith, the most recognizable face of First Take, as well as with other names like Max Kellerman, Shannon Sharpe, and Skip Bayless. While she wasn’t an analyst, her presence was essential to keeping order in debates that often flirted with chaos.

Social media reacts

From calming Stephen A. Smith during his most fiery moments to handling delicate situations like the LaVar Ball controversy, Molly Qerim earned the audience’s respect through composure and professionalism. Her departure sparked a wave of reactions online. Some fans celebrated that she’s “finally free from Stephen A.,” while others lamented that “the show is losing its compass.”

Finally leaving Stephen A Smith. He’s not worth it! Trashes LeBron James for clicks SMH

— InvestorX (@Investor_x1) September 16, 2025

Who will take her place?

Regardless of opinion, the void Molly Qerim leaves is undeniable. ESPN now faces the challenge of finding someone who can balance Stephen A. Smith’s ego without losing pace or credibility. Names like Monica McNutt, Shae Cornett, Elle Duncan, and Courtney Cronin have already been floated as possible replacements. Still, none have managed to replicate the chemistry Qerim had with the team.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida de Molly Qerim (@mollyqerim)

At 41, Molly Qerim closes a nearly two-decade chapter at ESPN. Her next professional move hasn’t been revealed, but her legacy as the moderator of one of the most-watched sports shows in the U.S. is already cemented. In a space where opinions often shout louder than analysis, she managed to hold the balance without losing her voice.

Molly Qerim’s exit doesn’t just mark the end of an era on First Take. It raises a bigger question: can the debate survive without someone to moderate it? Because one thing’s clear—without her, the noise will be louder… but not necessarily sharper.