Shae Cornette is ready to make a lasting mark on sports television. The journalist will take over as the new host of First Take, replacing Molly Qerim after a decade at the helm. In an interview with The New York Post, Cornette outlined her vision and revealed details about the competitive selection process that led her to one of ESPN’s most influential roles.
“I embrace the debate — that’s why I’m here,” Cornette said confidently. Her mission is to bring fresh perspectives to the show and expand discussions beyond mainstream sports. She plans to highlight underrepresented areas such as hockey and Midwestern teams, diversifying a program long dominated by coastal narratives. Cornette aims to be an active voice alongside Stephen A. Smith, ensuring each discussion feels authentic and dynamic.
A Thoughtful Transition at ESPN
According to The New York Post, Cornette expressed admiration for Molly Qerim, even though they haven’t yet spoken directly. “She made the job look effortless for ten years — that deserves respect,” Cornette said. Rather than seeing herself as a replacement, she views her arrival as the beginning of a new era for First Take.
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The selection process was extensive. ESPN tested multiple candidates, but Cornette stood out for her on-screen presence, composure, and journalistic credibility. Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, confirmed that the network had planned this transition well before Qerim’s official departure. “We wanted someone who could carry the legacy while evolving the format,” Magnus said.
Joining one of the most-watched debate shows in sports media, Cornette faces both enormous expectations and unique opportunities. Her challenge will be to maintain the show’s trademark energy while adding her own voice and personality. Confident and sharp, she intends to push First Take toward broader, more inclusive conversations — without losing its signature edge.
With millions of daily viewers and a platform that shapes sports culture, Cornette knows the magnitude of her role. Yet she steps into it with determination, ready to redefine what sports debate television can be.
