FS1 surprised many when it made retired NFL lineman Mark Schlereth the main host and “driver” of its new morning show Breakfast Ball.
That includes Schlereth himself.
In an interview with Barrett Media released Monday, Schlereth revealed he didn’t realize exactly what his role would be next to cohosts Craig Carton and Danny Parkins until after signing his contract and beginning rehearsals in New York City. Schlereth maintains that FS1 wasn’t fully clear about that aspect of his role when he initially signed the contract.
Still, Schlereth is adjusting well to life as the anchor of Breakfast Ball and learning on the fly.
“It’s been amazing to have that thrust upon me and then trying to figure out how to direct the show and get us to where we’re supposed to be going,” Schlereth told Barrett’s Derek Futterman. “And at the same time, be an analyst and give my opinion and interject into the conversation and to really listen to the conversation, and in the same time while I’m trying to get us to where we’re supposed to go. It’s been a real challenge.”
The cast of Breakfast Ball was assembled fairly hastily after reported FS1 target Michelle Beadle ended up not part of the show. With ESPN alum Dave Jacoby leaving Carton’s side and Parkins already in the mix, FS1 appeared to pivot to Schlereth, who has been a game analyst on Fox for years.
Then, it threw another wrench at the hosts by having Schlereth “drive” despite both Carton and Parkins bringing extensive radio experience.
Breakfast Ball is making due, but Schlereth appears to be taking most of the burden of evolving as a talent.