Summary
After nearly a decade hosting ESPN’s First Take, Molly Qerim has confirmed that she will leave the show at the end of 2025. She declined a contract extension, ending her long journey at ESPN that began in 2006. This article explores why Molly Qerim is leaving, her impact on First Take, fan reactions, and what her next chapter could look like.
Molly Qerim, the face of ESPN’s First Take since 2015, has announced that she will leave the show at the end of 2025. The decision shocked fans and colleagues alike, as she has been an essential part of the program’s success. Reports suggest that ESPN did offer her a new contract, but Qerim declined, choosing instead to close this chapter of her broadcasting career.
Molly Qerim’s ESPN Journey
Molly Qerim’s time at ESPN spans nearly two decades. She joined the company in 2006, starting with digital and mobile content production. By 2008, she had transitioned into the news team, showcasing her versatility and journalistic talent.
Her biggest break came in 2015, when she stepped in as interim host of First Take. Her professionalism and ability to moderate heated debates made her the perfect choice to succeed Cari Champion. By the end of that year, she was officially named the permanent host.
Over the next decade, Qerim became one of the most recognizable anchors in sports television.
Why Molly Qerim Is Leaving First Take
Turning Down a Contract Renewal
Sources reveal that ESPN offered Qerim a new deal to stay on as host. However, she declined, indicating that she wanted to “move on” after ten years on the program.
Emotional Instagram Announcement
Qerim confirmed the news in a heartfelt Instagram post. She admitted she had hoped to share the update later but was forced to respond after media reports broke the story. She called hosting First Take “one of the greatest honors of her career” and thanked fans, colleagues, and the network for their support.
Hinting at Future Plans
Her message ended with two words: “Stay tuned.” This strongly suggests that she has plans in motion, though she has not yet revealed what those are.
ESPN and Colleagues React to Her Departure
ESPN’s Statement
Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, praised Qerim’s contributions. He called her “a consummate professional” and credited her with helping First Take maintain its dominance in sports talk television. ESPN’s official statement reflected gratitude while respecting her decision.
Stephen A. Smith’s Tribute
Co-host Stephen A. Smith expressed admiration for Qerim, saying she brought balance, professionalism, and grace to the show. Fans of First Take know her as the steady presence who often grounded Smith and other analysts during fiery debates.
Fan Reactions
Fans across social media voiced sadness at the news. Many thanked her for a decade of fairness, intelligence, and humor on air. Some even argued that her presence was key to the program’s success and expressed doubts about how the show will feel without her.
Molly Qerim’s Impact on First Take
Qerim’s role as moderator went beyond reading questions and introducing topics. She set the tone for each discussion, ensured debates stayed on track, and gave equal time to each voice. Her ability to mediate between strong personalities like Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman (during his tenure), and various guest analysts was critical.
Without her, First Take might have struggled to maintain its balance. She earned respect not only for her journalistic skill but also for her ability to navigate live television’s unpredictable nature.
Key Career Highlights
- 2006: Joined ESPN in digital and mobile production
- 2008: Moved to ESPN’s news department
- 2015: Named permanent host of First Take
- 2020: Helped guide the show through pandemic-era production changes
- 2025: Announces departure at the end of the year
Her nearly 20 years at ESPN cemented her status as one of the leading women in sports broadcasting.
What’s Next for Molly Qerim?
Although Qerim has not disclosed her future plans, there are several possible directions:
- New Media Ventures – She could launch her own digital show or podcast, following the path of many sports personalities.
- Other Networks – Competing outlets like Fox Sports or NBC Sports may pursue her for hosting opportunities.
- Personal Projects – Having built a strong career, she may focus on philanthropy, writing, or personal ventures outside of sports.
- Entertainment Crossover – With her media presence, Qerim could even explore opportunities beyond sports broadcasting.
Her “stay tuned” remark keeps speculation alive, and fans eagerly await her next move.
Who Could Replace Molly Qerim on First Take?
With Qerim’s exit confirmed, ESPN faces the challenge of finding a new moderator. Possible replacements could include:
- Christine Williamson – An ESPN host known for her versatility
- Charly Arnolt – Former ESPN anchor with strong on-air presence
- Ashley Brewer – Experienced sports anchor and studio host
No official replacement has been announced yet, but whoever steps in will have big shoes to fill.
The Future of First Take Without Molly Qerim
Her departure leaves a major gap. While Stephen A. Smith remains the centerpiece, Qerim’s ability to keep discussions balanced cannot be underestimated. ESPN may adjust the format or rotate moderators until a permanent replacement is chosen.
The next chapter of First Take will depend heavily on how well the new host adapts to the role Qerim made her own over ten years.
Conclusion
Molly Qerim’s decision to step down from ESPN’s First Take marks the end of an era. After joining ESPN in 2006 and hosting First Take since 2015, her professionalism, grace, and leadership have left a lasting mark on sports broadcasting.
While ESPN moves forward with the task of replacing her, fans remain eager to see what’s next for one of the most respected women in sports media.
Her departure is both the close of a memorable chapter and the beginning of an exciting new one.
Also Read : Project Hail Mary – Ryan Gosling’s Bold Return to Sci-Fi Space Heroics
FAQs
When is Molly Qerim leaving First Take?
She will officially step down at the end of 2025.
Why is Molly Qerim leaving?
She declined a new contract with ESPN, choosing instead to move on after nearly a decade hosting First Take.
How long has Molly Qerim been at ESPN?
She joined ESPN in 2006 and became the permanent host of First Take in 2015.
What did Molly Qerim say in her announcement?
She called hosting the show “one of the greatest honors” of her career and thanked fans, colleagues, and ESPN leadership.
Who will replace Molly Qerim?
No official replacement has been announced yet, but ESPN is expected to select a new host before her departure.
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