Molly Qerim’s time on ESPN’s First Take ended suddenly in September 2025. Her exit caught fans off guard because there was no farewell episode or official send-off. Stephen A. Smith announced on air that she had resigned the night before, surprising viewers and much of ESPN staff.
What Happened to Molly Qerim on First Take?
Reports say Molly chose to step away after contract talks with ESPN broke down. ESPN wanted her to stay, but planned to move her to another show like SportsCenter, which many saw as a step down. Sources close to the network said she didn’t want to stay on air as a “lame duck” host once news of her exit leaked.
She shared a short message online confirming her decision. Molly said it was time to “close this chapter” and thanked fans and colleagues for the years of support. She had hosted First Take since 2015 and worked for ESPN for nearly two decades.
Her departure looked fast and messy. She left before her contract officially ended. Insiders said she wanted to control her exit rather than let ESPN dictate the timing.
Why is Molly Qerim leaving ESPN First Take?
Behind the scenes, ESPN was already planning changes. Burke Magnus, ESPN’s president of content, confirmed that Molly was set to leave First Take either way once her contract expired. Executives wanted to move her into a different role, but she decided not to take it.
Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, a regular on the show, said Molly felt embarrassed by how the news broke. She probably didn’t want to stay on camera knowing the network was preparing to replace her. It was about pride and professionalism — she wanted to leave on her own terms.
There may have been other factors too. Reports noted that she earned much less than her cohost Stephen A. Smith, which highlighted the gap in ESPN’s talent pay structure. Some analysts believe that difference added to her frustration.
After she left, ESPN named Shae Cornette as the new host. Her first day on air will be November 3, 2025.
For now, Molly hasn’t said what’s next. Her social media remains quiet, hinting she may be taking a break after nearly twenty years on live television. She’s kept her Instagram bio unchanged, which still lists her as a “Host of First Take” — maybe out of habit, or maybe as a sign she hasn’t decided her next step yet.
Her exit marked the end of an era for one of ESPN’s most recognizable faces. Fans continue to call for her return, but for now, Molly Qerim seems content stepping away from the spotlight.
Disclaimer:
This update is based on current reports and official statements. Details surrounding Molly Qerim's departure are still evolving.
