Stephen A Smith is clearly the face of ESPN — however for a way lengthy?
Smith’s contract is ready to run out subsequent July, and he’s reportedly been in negotiations with ESPN for a brand new deal. ESPN govt Burke Magnus not too long ago appeared on The Sports activities Media Podcast with Richard Deitsch and talked about the opportunity of life with out Stephen A.
“First Take would proceed, clearly,” Magnus stated in response to Deitsch asking if there’s a substitute plan if Smith leaves. “We’d determine that out. The good half in regards to the surroundings that we reside in…there’s a wealth of gifted folks on the market who, if given the prospect, I feel might additionally grow to be superstars very simply on our platform. The format of First Take I feel lends to that. It’s already an ensemble state of affairs in some ways. So, I don’t fear about that in any respect.”
The Winston-Salem State College alumnus is reportedly in search of a $25 million per 12 months deal, whereas it has been reported that ESPN has provided within the neighborhood of $18 million per 12 months.
“First Take, which is his main task, is a juggernaut,” Magnus admitted. “I feel we’re going to get 24 straight months of month-over-month, year-over-year viewers progress. That simply doesn’t occur in in the present day’s world. It occurs as a result of he’s constructed this present…I really feel nearly as good about our 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. lineup as I’ve ever felt, and I feel the outcomes bear that out. He’s a key part to that.”
Smith has been a constant presence on the community for over 20 years, from changing into a contributor to internet hosting his personal late-night present ‘Fairly Frankly: With Stephen A.” He was briefly fired by the corporate again in 2009 earlier than bouncing again in a serious means. He’s been certainly one of — and now ‘the’ face of First Take, which continues to develop its viewers.
Along with his work for ESPN, he has additionally began his personal manufacturing firm in addition to launching his personal podcast. Love him or hate him, Stephen A. is without doubt one of the most talked about and seen personalities in sports activities media —and in media general. It can positively be attention-grabbing to see if the 2 sides can come to an settlement, or if Smith will trip off into the sundown for his subsequent chapter.
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