Stephen A. Smith paid an emotional tribute to First Take co-host Molly Qerim after she announced she was walking away from the show.
Qerim took to Instagram on Monday night to confirm her impending exit from the popular sports talk show, which she has fronted with Smith since 2015.
The 41-year-old said she has decided to step away at the end of the year, coming as a huge shock to sports fans across the country.
In the show’s first broadcast after her announcement, Qerim was nowhere to be seen. Instead, Smith kicked off the show and did so by paying tribute to his co-host.
A subdued Smith said: ‘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 incomparable kindness.
Stephen A. Smith paid an emotional tribute to First Take co-host Molly Qerim on Tuesday
First Take host Molly Qerim has waved goodbye to ESPN after almost two decades
Qerim has worked alongside Stephen A. Smith on the sports talk show for the last 10 years (Qerim and Smith, left, pictured with The Rock, right)
‘She’s been an enormous part of our success for a decade. Not only did she keep me and many others in line, she did it with dignity, class and kindness to say the least.
‘We’ll miss her and wish her every blessing on her future. I, personally, am grateful to her for her friendship. I will miss spending everyday weekday morning with her’.
Meanwhile, ESPN President Burke Magnus also released a statement on Tuesday morning regarding Qerim’s exit.
It read: ‘Molly has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of First Take’s success since joining as host a decade ago.
‘She elevated the show with her poise, skill and professionalism, while supporting others as a kind and encouraging teammate.
‘We respect Molly’s decision, wish her the best in the future, and thank her for her extraordinary daily commitment to sports fans and ESPN.’
Reports that emerged on Tuesday morning suggested that Qerim would be leaving the show at the end of the year – despite missing the first show after her statement.
On Monday night, Qerim addressed her First Take departure in a post on her story and did not deny claims that she is also departing ESPN.
‘Now that the news came out earlier than I intended, and not in the way I hoped…’ she started the message.
Qerim confirmed that she would be leaving First Take via a statement on Monday night
ESPN President Burke Magnus also released a statement thanking Qerim for her efforts
‘To my First Take family,’ Qerim continued. ‘After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.
‘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.’
She also suggested there is more news to come after ending the post with: ‘Stay tuned :)’.
According to Sports Business Journal, Qerim was offered a new contract by ESPN this year, but she opted to turn it down and end her stint on the network.
She started off on the digital/mobile team back in 2006, before becoming a College Football Live host two years later.
The American TV personality also worked as a breaking news reporter for Fantasy Football Now on ESPN2, receiving an Emmy for her contribution to the show in 2008.
