Stephen A. Smith has solidified his status as the star of ESPN’s “First Take,” especially following the departure of former co-host Max Kellerman. Kellerman, who gained fame through his boxing insights and was previously the host of “Around the Horn,” recently spoke on “The Bill Simmons Podcast.” The conversation touched on his tenure at ESPN and his complicated relationship with Smith.
While Kellerman refrained from making overt criticisms of Smith, it was evident that he harbored some disappointment. He mentioned feeling a lack of connection while working with Smith, stating, “Stephen A. was the one partner I’ve ever had over the years where I didn’t feel like a relationship was really forming.” This sentiment underscores the challenges that can arise in partnerships within high-pressure television environments.
The dynamics of their relationship were further complicated by Kellerman’s efforts to position himself as a heavyweight in sports commentary. He playfully referred to himself as “Muhammad Kellerman,” likening himself to the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. He articulated the idea that being seen as a solo act brings financial advantages, implying that Smith’s solo stardom at ESPN was a game-changer in their professional landscape.
Another point of contention has been the departure of Molly Qerim, who had a strong rapport with Smith. Kellerman and fellow ESPN alum Pablo Torre suggested that Smith could have influenced contract negotiations to retain Qerim, but it appears that financial considerations, primarily Smith’s impressive $105 million contract, played a pivotal role in the decision-making process. Torre highlighted the difficult reality that Smith, as the show’s star, holds substantial power in shaping the team around him, which can lead to tough choices that impact others in the organization.
As Qerim explores new opportunities, the situation emphasizes the complexities of individual roles on a collaborative platform. The ripple effects of Smith’s individual success could extend beyond mere ratings, highlighting the often intricate interplay between personal ambition and team dynamics in the world of sports broadcasting. While the changes at “First Take” may be challenging, they open doors for new voices and ideas in the ever-evolving landscape of sports media.