Back up the Brinks truck to Stephen A. Smith’s house. Sources told The Athletic that Stephen A. Smith has agreed to a new five-year contract with ESPN worth at least $100 million, ensuring his continued role as the face of First Take while scaling back other network obligations.
Smith, 57, will remain the star of First Take, but his presence on other ESPN programming will decrease. He will no longer be a regular on the network’s top NBA pregame show, though he may still make guest appearances during marquee events like Monday Night Football. The new deal allows him to expand his presence beyond sports, particularly in political discourse.
Known for his outspoken views on issues beyond the court, Smith has increasingly delved into politics. He frequently discusses national affairs on The Stephen A. Smith Show and makes appearances on Fox News, including interviews with Sean Hannity. His vocal stance on figures like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris has fueled speculation about a potential political future, with some even floating his name as a presidential candidate.