Who is Shae Cornette?

Shae Cornette is the new host of ESPN's "First Take" program, replacing Molly Qerim who departed the show last month.

Why did Molly Qerim leave "First Take"?

Molly Qerim's departure from "First Take" was reportedly due to contract negotiations and her future at the network, though the exact reasons were not entirely clear.

What is Stephen A. Smith's role in the "First Take" host change?

Stephen A. Smith, one of ESPN's highest-paid performers earning $20 million annually, is expected to be involved in the decision-making process for the new "First Take" host, as he is also the executive producer of the "Embrace Debate" program.

Home / Sports / ESPN Taps Shae Cornette to Replace Molly Qerim on First Take

ESPN Taps Shae Cornette to Replace Molly Qerim on First Take

16 Oct

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Summary

Shae Cornette selected to host "First Take" after Molly Qerim's departure
Stephen A. Smith, earning $20M annually, is involved in the decision
Cornette has hosted radio and TV programs at ESPN since 2020

ESPN Taps Shae Cornette to Replace Molly Qerim on First Take

In a significant move, ESPN has announced that Shae Cornette will be the new host of the popular sports talk show "First Take," replacing Molly Qerim who departed the program last month. Cornette was selected after a month-long audition process, and she is set to officially take over the hosting duties on November 3.

The decision to bring in Cornette is noteworthy, as she will be working alongside Stephen A. Smith, one of ESPN's highest-paid performers who earns a staggering $20 million annually. Smith, who is also the executive producer of the "Embrace Debate" program, is expected to have a say in the final decision.

Cornette's appointment comes after Qerim's abrupt departure from "First Take" last month. While the reasons for Qerim's exit were not entirely clear, it was speculated that it may have been related to contract negotiations and her future at the network. ESPN has since tried out several other hosts, including Peter Schrager, Amina Smith, MJ Acosta, Courtney Cronin, and Joe Fortenbaugh, before ultimately selecting Cornette.