ESPN has officially revealed the identity of Molly Qerim’s replacement on First Take! Name revealed below.
Shae Cornette Named as Molly Qerim’s Replacement on First Take
ESPN has officially confirmed Shae Cornette as the new host of its flagship sports debate show, First Take, following the unexpected departure of Molly Qerim. This announcement marks a significant moment for ESPN as it moves forward with a fresh face to co-anchor alongside Stephen A. Smith and the rest of the panel. Cornette’s appointment comes after a period of rotating guest hosts, as ESPN carefully evaluated candidates to fill the high-profile role.
Since joining ESPN in 2020, Shae Cornette has steadily built a reputation as a versatile and knowledgeable sports broadcaster. Her new position on First Take will be her most prominent role to date, positioning her at the center of one of the most-watched and talked-about sports shows on television. Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how Cornette’s dynamic presence will influence the show’s energy and discussions.
Background and Career Highlights of Shae Cornette
Before stepping into the First Take spotlight, Shae Cornette made her mark in sports media through a variety of roles. She began her career covering the Chicago Bears for Fox 32, where she honed her skills in sports reporting and analysis. Cornette also co-hosted the popular radio show Kap & Co. on ESPN 1000, further expanding her experience in sports broadcasting.
Since joining ESPN, Cornette has become a familiar face on SportsCenter and other studio programs. Her ability to engage audiences with insightful commentary and confident delivery has earned her respect within the industry. ESPN’s decision to elevate Cornette to First Take host reflects their confidence in her talent and potential to contribute meaningfully to the show’s ongoing success.
The Transition from Molly Qerim to Shae Cornette
Molly Qerim’s departure from ESPN in mid-September came as a surprise to many. After more than a decade as the face of First Take’s hosting desk, Qerim’s exit left a notable gap. Reports initially suggested that Qerim and ESPN were planning to part ways at the end of 2025, but her decision to leave earlier than expected caught colleagues and fans off guard.
In the interim, ESPN experimented with various guest hosts to maintain the show’s momentum. The network’s thorough search ultimately led to the selection of Shae Cornette, who officially began her new role on November 3. Both ESPN and Cornette shared statements expressing enthusiasm about the transition. ESPN praised Cornette’s “dynamic presence, extensive knowledge and confident command of conversation,” while Cornette herself expressed excitement about contributing to First Take’s vibrant energy and passionate sports debates.
What This Means for First Take and ESPN’s Audience
First Take remains one of ESPN’s most popular and influential programs, known for its spirited debates and strong personalities. The show’s success relies heavily on the chemistry between hosts and their ability to engage viewers with compelling sports discussions. Shae Cornette’s arrival signals a new chapter, promising fresh perspectives and continued high-energy debates.
For longtime viewers, the change in hosting may bring a different dynamic, but Cornette’s experience and enthusiasm suggest she is well-equipped to maintain the show’s appeal. Her background in both television and radio, combined with her familiarity with ESPN’s style, positions her to connect with the audience effectively.
Looking Ahead: Shae Cornette’s Vision for First Take
In her announcement, Shae Cornette highlighted her readiness to embrace the challenges of hosting First Take. She emphasized her passion for sports and the show’s unique blend of energy and perspective. Cornette’s vision includes building on the established brand while bringing her own voice and style to the debate desk.
As she settles into her new role, viewers can expect Cornette to foster engaging conversations and contribute to the lively sports discourse that First Take is known for. Her journey from local sports coverage to a national platform exemplifies her dedication and growth within the industry.
Conclusion
ESPN’s decision to name Shae Cornette as the official replacement for Molly Qerim on First Take marks an exciting new era for the network’s flagship debate show. With Cornette’s extensive experience and dynamic presence, fans can look forward to engaging sports discussions and fresh perspectives. Stay tuned to First Take to witness how Shae Cornette shapes the future of this iconic program. Don’t miss out—catch the next episode and join the conversation!
