Photo Credit: Paul Morigi/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images
Stephen A. Smith has come under fire for his latest comment pointed towards Chiney Ogwumike during Friday’s edition of First Take. Ogwumike praised NBA star Rudy Gobert, drawing a connection to her French roots.
Smith interrupted to reveal that he had never dated a woman from France in his life before making a raunchy remark about Ogwumike’s speech. Many took to social media to criticize Smith’s joke, including calling for his firing from the show.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith flirts with Chiney Ogwumike on live TV, fans react
During Friday’s edition of First Take, Ogwumike, a former Los Angeles Sparks player, spoke a few kind words about Gobert in the French language. She reflected on how the NBA star comes from France and said that after hearing the language on TV, she hopes people feel represented and proud.
Smith, referring to Ogwumike’s take on language, interuppted to share his personal take on how he had never dated a woman from France. He said, “I’ve got to get a little personal for a second here, Chiney. Listen, I’m leaving the life. I’m pretty damn happy to say the last.”
He continued, “But, I must admit, in all my years on this earth, I’ve never dated a woman from France or anything like that, but after hearing Chiney, what have I been missing? What have I been missing?”
Alluding to her “verbiage,” Smith said that it “kind of” turned him on. Ogwumike appeared to be awkward as she hid her face, laughed briefly, and said, “crazy.” Smith then moved on to the sports topic; however, his comments sparked massive controversy.
A user wrote, “The answer to the question about when to fire Smith has always been right now.” Another one said, “Harassment on live TV in 2026. Not shocking, but still infuriating.” A third added, “It’s also the fact that if that’s what he does on live national television, imagine what he does and says when cameras aren’t on.”
Other reactions also included, “He needs to go, but they employ McAfee. Nothing will happen, unfortunately,” One user wrote, “I’m with you. He doesn’t have any redeeming qualities!,” Another commented, “Guarantee, he’ll make an apology, and nothing will be done about it. It’ll be all good.”
Originally reported by Shazmeen Navrange on ComingSoon.
The post Stephen A. Smith Slammed for ‘Turned Me on’ Comment Toward Chiney Ogwumike appeared first on Mandatory.