Stephen A. Smith continues to solidify his place as a sports media icon, leading ESPN’s First Take to unprecedented success. The show, co-hosted by Molly Qerim, had its most-watched year in 2023, averaging 496,000 weekday viewers and growing 24 percent year-over-year in December. The addition of Shannon Sharpe after his departure from Undisputed also contributed to the show’s success, with over 250 million YouTube views reported. Qerim, who has built her own fan base with her dynamic presence and sharp insights, remains an integral part of First Take’s appeal.
Stephen A. Smith Compliments Molly Qerim
During a recent episode, Smith returned to the set after covering the NBA Cup Final in Las Vegas and wasted no time noticing Qerim’s latest outfit. “That’s a new outfit,” Smith said, adding, “I like it.” Qerim, dressed in an all-blue leather ensemble with white boots, modestly brushed off the compliment, joking that she had “wasted it on a random Wednesday.” Smith quickly countered, “It’s always a big day when I’m in the house,” drawing laughter and praise from fans online. One viewer tweeted, “What is Molly Qerim wearing today? My God, she looks fantastic!”
Often admired for her fashion choices, Qerim has consistently turned heads both on and off the First Take set. In addition to her eye-catching outfits, she is known for her commitment to fitness and has shared glimpses of her workout routines on social media. Whether appearing at UFC 309 in denim or dazzling in a flowy minidress, her style always seems to generate buzz. Her ability to balance professionalism with charm makes her a standout on the show and in sports media.
As First Take flourishes, the chemistry between Smith and Qerim remains one of its biggest draws. Their lighthearted banter and mutual respect create a dynamic that resonates with viewers and keeps the show at the forefront of the sports debate genre. Stephen A. Smith’s acknowledgement of Molly Qerim’s contributions, whether through compliments on her style or recognition of her talent, underscores why this duo continues to dominate ESPN’s lineup.
