Molly Qerim, the steady hand at the center of ESPN’s First Take for the past decade, is preparing to step away from the network and the debate desk she helped define. The announcement, which Qerim made via Instagram on Monday night, marks the end of a significant chapter not just in her career, but also in ESPN’s daily programming.
Qerim first joined First Take in 2015 as a fill-in host, stepping into a role left open after Cari Champion transitioned to SportsCenter. What was meant to be temporary quickly became permanent.
Her ability to guide fiery conversations between Stephen A. Smith and a revolving cast of debate partners brought balance to a show known for its intensity. From Max Kellerman to Chris “Mad Dog” Russo and countless athlete guests, Qerim played the crucial role of mediator, referee, and sometimes peacemaker.
In her announcement, Qerim reflected on her journey:
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career.”
“Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports and with all of you, the best fans in the world.”
According to Sports Business Journal, ESPN did offer Qerim a new contract, but she decided it was time to move on. Qerim’s departure comes at a time when First Take remains one of ESPN’s flagship programs.
Airing weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon, the show has been powered by Stephen A. Smith’s larger-than-life presence, with Qerim serving as the anchor who ensured debates stayed sharp but never spiraled out of control. For fans, she became as much a part of the fabric of the show as the stars she moderated.
Her career at ESPN stretches back to 2006, when she worked on the network’s digital and mobile team before moving to the news division in 2008. She later won an Emmy for her work on Fantasy Football Now before leaving briefly for NFL Network and CBS Sports. Returning to ESPN in 2015, she soon found herself in one of the most visible positions in sports media.
The timing of her decision also carries weight. Qerim recently returned from a summer vacation where she emphasized the importance of family and balance. At 41, she has spent nearly two decades in sports broadcasting, and it appears she’s ready to turn the page. Whether that next step is a new role in media, a personal venture, or something entirely different remains to be seen.
For now, her legacy at ESPN is clear: Molly Qerim gave First Take structure, credibility, and a human touch. After 10 years of morning debates, her presence will be missed, not only by Stephen A. Smith and the rotating cast of analysts, but by viewers who came to see her as the calm in the storm of sports’ loudest show.
