Is there anything Stephen A Smith can’t do?
In addition to hosting and executive producing First Take, commentating on the NBA, launching his own digital video show and production company, and working out like a madman, Smith said this week that he has his sights set on the silver screen as well.
That’s right, the longtime sports analyst and debater wants to get into acting.
He first appeared on the ABC soap opera General Hospital in 2016 in a recurring role as Brick, a tech expert for the mob. But in an interview on KG Certified with Kevin Garnett, Smith said he’s thinking bigger now.
“Yes, I’m going to get into acting more. I’m going to actually take it seriously; I’m going to do some acting,” Smith said. “I’ll take some classes, the whole bit.”
More specifically, Smith said his dream role would be gang boss Nino Brown from “New Jack City,” played by the legendary Wesley Snipes.
However, Smith knows he will need to chart his own path. He doesn’t want to be a Snipes imitator or mooch off someone else’s greatness in reboots or ripoffs.
“Certain greatness ain’t meant to be imitated,” Smith said. “Leave it alone.”
Still, Smith is drawn to playing mysterious, influential people on screen. That might allow him to play a slightly different character than the brash-take artist he plays every morning on ESPN.
Given his success as a sports and political analyst, producer, and writer, it would be hard to doubt that Smith could succeed in Hollywood as a star.
With upcoming ESPN contract negotiations potentially offering him more freedom, Smith is ready for more.
About Brendon Kleen
Brendon is a Media Commentary staff writer at Awful Announcing. He has also covered basketball and sports business at Front Office Sports, SB Nation, Uproxx and more.