When “First Take” co-host Molly Qerim announced on social media that she was leaving ESPN, many people were shocked, as she has been with ESPN since 2006 and has been hosting the show since 2015. Reports indicate that she will continue hosting “First Take” alongside Stephen A. Smith until her contract expires by the end of the year.
Molly Qerim is leaving ESPN at the end of the year, per @SBJ.
She’s been with the company since 2006 and has hosted First Take since 2015. pic.twitter.com/QsP8Iicnqc
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 16, 2025
Soon enough, the public reacted, with some sad to see her go, while others were already speculating on who would replace her.
“Rumour is Skip Bayless will replace her,” one fan claimed.
“It shoulda been Stephen A,” one Smith critic commented.
“Probably off to NBC as they bring the NBA back or something.” another fan opined.
“@MollyQerim great job hosting. Interested to see what you do next. @truthadpod the sports world would love to see her on the show. @AzarFarideh @paulpierce34,” another commenter said.
“10 years is a long time in sports talk to do a show. She’ll do well with whatever she decides to do.” one X user added.
“I think she is looking at paramount bevayse of the merger with WBD. Ellison is going to revamp the sports side big time with new hires . They are going to have so much sports over there,” noted one fan.
Molly Qerim Teases What Is Next For Her During Her Exit Announcement
Qerim announced her departure on social media, adding that fans should “stay tuned” for what is next for her, indicating that she is already looking forward to something once her ESPN contract expires.
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take,” she wrote. “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.”
First Take Host #MollyQerim has announced she is leaving the show & according to reports it will be at the end of the year.
📸: Molly Qerim IG pic.twitter.com/EQOYej316a— Nick Hamilton (@NickHamilton213) September 16, 2025
Molly Qerim has had a long run covering various sports, as she has reported on the NBA, NFL and MLB drafts, as well as the Heisman Trophy Presentation and various other sporting events. She previously co-hosted “NFL AM” and “NFL Fantasy Live” on the NFL Network.
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