Molly Qerim, the host of ESPN’s morning show “First Take” with Stephen A. Smith, is departing the network at the end of the year after spending a decade as host, she announced Monday night.
Qerim, 41, was reportedly offered a new contract by ESPN, but she opted to move on, according to a report by Sports Business Journal. Qerim has worked at the network since 2006, first working on digital and mobile platforms.
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take,” Qerim wrote via a post on her Instagram story. “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.
“I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.”
On Tuesday morning, Smith kicked off the show by sharing a heartfelt message with viewers.
“Normally, our friend Molly Qerim would greet you. However, Molly announced last night she will be departing from ESPN. She’s hosted First Take for 10 years and elevated the show with her grace, her expertise and her incomparable kindness. … We’ll miss her and wish her every blessing on her future.
“I personally am grateful to her for her friendship, and I will miss spending every weekday morning with her right by my side.”
Stephen A. Smith: “Good morning and welcome to First Take. Normally, our friend Molly Qerim would greet you. However, Molly announced last night she will be departing from ESPN. She’s hosted First Take for 10 years and elevated the show with her grace, her expertise and her… pic.twitter.com/2aAmG8d2N7
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) September 16, 2025
Burke Magnus, ESPN’s president of content, posted to X, thanking Qerim for her time at the network.
“Molly has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of First Take’s success since joining as a host decades ago,” he wrote. “She elevated the show with her poise, skill and professionalism, while supporting others as a kind and encouraging teammate.”
Qerim joined ESPN in 2006 and stayed at the network for four years, hosting college football and fantasy football shows. After stops at CBS Sports, covering college football and basketball, and the NFL Network, she covered many major sporting events, like the Super Bowl.
After returning to ESPN, she was a fill-in host on “First Take” before becoming the permanent host in 2015, when the network paired her with long-time analyst Stephen A. Smith. In 2023, the two-hour show achieved its most-watched year to date.
Earlier this year, Qerim opened up about her ongoing battle with endometriosis, which the World Health Organization describes as “a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.”
Qerim’s next move is unclear, but the Connecticut native concluded her Instagram post with “Stay tuned,” indicating she may have an announcement coming soon.
(Photo: Paras Griffin / Getty Images)