Stephen A. Smith isn’t going anywhere—at least, not anytime soon.
The outspoken, high-energy voice of ESPN has inked a five-year, $100 million deal to stay with the network, solidifying his spot as the face of sports debate for the foreseeable future. A source familiar with the agreement confirmed the news to CNBC, with The Athletic breaking the story first.
“I’m happy and honored to remain a member of the Disney/ESPN family for, at least, the next five years,” Smith said in a statement Friday.
From “living off tuna fish and Kool-Aid” as an intern and high school sports reporter to becoming the engine that keeps First Take revving, Stephen A. Smith serves up hot takes with his signature mix of bravado, conviction, and just the right amount of theatrical flair to keep fans coming back for more. His influence extends beyond the debate desk, making him one of ESPN’s most utilized and recognizable personalities.
“Stephen A. works incredibly hard to elevate the sports conversation day-in and day-out and we are grateful he will remain at ESPN,” said ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro. “He is a difference maker, and fans are captivated by his deep sports knowledge, strong opinions, and unmistakable flair.”
Smith will keep his throne on First Take, but his role within ESPN is shifting. According to The Athletic, next season will see him stepping away from the NBA pregame show and reducing his appearances on other ESPN programming. The network confirmed that Smith will still contribute beyond First Take, though it kept the details under wraps.
What does this mean for Stephen A.? Likely, more time to expand his empire. He’s already ventured beyond sports, diving into political discussions, guesting on Fox News, and carving out his own lane with The Stephen A. Smith Show. In fact, his name has even been tossed around in presidential conversations for 2028—a notion he’s both entertained and dismissed in classic Stephen A. fashion.
“I’m saying, wait a minute now, I don’t want to do this,” he joked with Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show. “But the fact that they’re talking about me this way, I must say, I approve this message.”
One thing’s for sure—whether he’s talking hoops, politics, or his own hypothetical presidential campaign, Stephen A. Smith stays in the conversation. And with this new deal, he’s making sure the mic stays right where it belongs: in his hands.
