Not that we were wondering, but ESPN has announced to the world that pundit Stephen A. Smith has signed a multi-year deal to remain with the Worldwide Leader. He’ll continue his role as a co-debater on First Take with Skip Bayless as well as contribute to SportsCenter and other ESPN shows. He will also continue hosting a his SiriusXM radio show.
Smith first began his career at ESPN in 2003 as an analyst on the NBA and reporter. He then expanded his role to hosting a radio show in 2005 through 2008 as well as Quite Frankly with Stephen A. Smith on ESPN2 for two years.
He left ESPN for a short period making appearances on CNN and other networks, but returned to the Worldwide Leader and was named a permanent fixture on First Take in 2012 and has been debating Bayless ever since.
During that period, Smith has used the platform to say anything that comes to mind and it has gotten him into trouble, getting suspended last year and subsequently apologizing for comments regarding the Ray Rice situation.
No matter what you think of Stephen A., he does move the needle. Of course his decision to stay with ESPN will allow for more great Jay Pharoah Weekend Update impressions which tickles us to no end.
More Stephen A. Smith on First Take? That’s tough to watch. More Jay Pharoah as Stephen A. Smith? That’s comedy gold.
[ESPN]
