Shae Cornette Named Full-Time ‘First Take’ Host at ESPN with Stephen A. Smith’s Blessing
ESPN’s flagship sports debate show, “First Take,” has a new full-time host: Shae Cornette. After serving as a fill-in host and anchoring “SportsCenter,” Cornette has officially stepped into the role, bringing her unique blend of confidence, insight, and passion to the program. This transition comes with the full support of Stephen A. Smith, the show’s star and executive producer, signaling a promising new chapter for the popular morning debate series.
Shae Cornette’s Appointment as Full-Time ‘First Take’ Host
Shae Cornette’s journey to becoming the full-time host of “First Take” is a testament to her dedication and expertise in sports journalism. Since joining ESPN in 2020, Cornette has made significant strides, initially gaining recognition as a “SportsCenter” anchor and a reliable substitute host on “First Take.” Her appointment follows the departure of Molly Qerim, who left the show after a decade-long tenure.
Stephen A. Smith, a central figure on “First Take,” praised Cornette’s ability to command the desk with poise and passion. He emphasized that hosting the show requires a combination of toughness, confidence, and deep sports knowledge—qualities Cornette embodies. Smith’s endorsement not only highlights Cornette’s readiness but also reassures fans of the show’s continued excellence.
Cornette expressed her enthusiasm about taking on this new role, reflecting on her growth at ESPN from radio to television. She highlighted how “First Take” represents everything she loves about sports: energy, perspective, and passionate debate. Her commitment to bringing these elements to the debate desk every weekday morning promises to keep the show engaging and relevant.
Background and Career Highlights of Shae Cornette
Before joining ESPN, Shae Cornette built a solid foundation in sports media through various roles in Chicago’s radio and television markets. Her experience spans multiple platforms, allowing her to develop a versatile skill set that suits the dynamic environment of live sports broadcasting.
At ESPN, Cornette quickly became a familiar face, anchoring “SportsCenter” and hosting studio segments for both radio and television. Her meticulous preparation and natural ability to connect with high-profile personalities have made her a standout talent within the network. David Roberts, ESPN’s executive vice president, commended her professionalism and energy, noting that these attributes make her an ideal fit for “First Take.”
Cornette’s last “SportsCenter” appearance was on October 25, marking a full transition to her new role. Fans can now look forward to her leading “First Take,” which airs Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon ET, streaming live on ESPN+.
The Impact of Shae Cornette’s Hosting on ‘First Take’
“First Take” has long been a cornerstone of ESPN’s programming, known for its lively debates and insightful sports analysis. With Shae Cornette at the helm, the show is poised to maintain its reputation while introducing fresh energy and perspectives.
Cornette’s hosting style blends thorough preparation with an engaging presence, ensuring that discussions remain both informative and entertaining. Her ability to manage the show’s high-profile personalities and keep debates on point is expected to enhance the viewing experience for the audience.
Moreover, Cornette’s appointment comes at a pivotal time following Molly Qerim’s departure, which was reportedly due to contract disagreements. Her seamless integration into the role helps stabilize the show’s dynamic and reassures viewers of its continued quality.
Conclusion
Shae Cornette’s elevation to full-time host of ESPN’s “First Take” marks an exciting development for the show and its fans. With Stephen A. Smith’s endorsement and her proven track record, Cornette is set to bring renewed vigor and insightful commentary to one of sports media’s most popular debate platforms. Sports enthusiasts can look forward to engaging, passionate discussions every weekday morning, led by a host who truly understands the game.
Don’t miss out on the latest episodes of “First Take” with Shae Cornette—tune in on ESPN+ and experience the energy and expertise she brings to the desk!
