Shae Cornette, First Take, ESPN
ESPN has officially named Shae Cornette as the new host of First Take, replacing longtime anchor Molly Qerim just days before the NBA season tips off, Front Office Sports reports. Cornette will join Stephen A. Smith at the debate desk starting November 3, the network confirmed on October 16.
Smith welcomed the news on-air Thursday morning, calling Cornette “a pro’s pro” and saying he’s “thrilled to have her officially join the First Take family full-time.”
Cornette, who has been with ESPN since 2020, said she’s ready for the challenge, per Yahoo. “I feel ready to step into this role and know I can add to the already successful brand that First Take is,” she said. “From my days in radio to hosting SportsCenter and now First Take, my journey at ESPN has been one of growth, challenge, and opportunity.”
The move comes as ESPN finalizes its lineup for the network’s busiest stretch of the year. Cornette will continue anchoring SportsCenter until October 25 before transitioning to her new role.
Qerim’s Departure & ESPN’s Quick Pivot
Molly Qerim’s exit from First Take last month surprised fans and insiders alike. She had hosted the show for over a decade, becoming a familiar face in morning sports television. According to ESPN president of content Burke Magnus, the departure happened “quicker than planned” after Sports Business Journal broke news of the change and Qerim publicly addressed it on Instagram.
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter,” Qerim wrote in her farewell message. “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.”
Media personality Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, a regular contributor on the show, said on SI Media Podcast that he believed Qerim wanted to avoid being viewed as a “lame duck,” per the NY Post. “I think she precipitated it,” Russo said. “She probably felt embarrassed if the world thought she was a lame duck and still doing the show.”
Qerim’s decision opened the door for ESPN to experiment with several guest hosts. Cornette stood out among them, earning praise from producers for her natural connection with First Take’s fast-paced format. Her chemistry with Smith, in particular, made her an early favorite to take over.
Timing the Transition with the NBA’s Return
Cornette’s promotion arrives just before the 2025–26 NBA season tips off next week, featuring a star-studded opening night on NBC and Peacock, NorthJersey reports. The league’s new broadcast partnership will debut with a doubleheader showcasing the Thunder-Rockets and Lakers-Warriors, four teams loaded with championship aspirations.
So where’s the petition to permanently replace Molly on first take with certified ball-knower Shae Cornette?!? Lol
— Shake (@Drksknbrotha) February 12, 2025
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For ESPN, inserting Cornette at the center of one of its most popular shows ensures stability during a high-profile sports moment. Smith, who also serves as First Take’s executive producer, said Cornette has the confidence and edge the job demands. “Hosting First Take is no easy assignment,” Smith said. “It requires confidence, toughness, and real sports insight — and Shae brings all of that and more.”
Cornette, a Chicago native and former Bears reporter, first gained attention for her work on local pre- and postgame coverage before joining ESPN. Her rise from regional sports media to one of the network’s most visible platforms highlights ESPN’s focus on homegrown talent — a narrative fitting for the new season ahead.
With the NBA’s return around the corner, Cornette’s debut promises to add a fresh dynamic to First Take’s fiery morning debates.