Molly Qerim has made her much-anticipated return to the screens of First Take, much to the delight of fans who have been eagerly awaiting her comeback. The popular ESPN debate show has been a staple for NFL enthusiasts, and Qerim’s presence is often a highlight for viewers. However, her return came at a time when another key figure, Stephen A. Smith, was notably absent.
On Tuesday, Stephen A. Smith was not on set, as he attended a prestigious event hosted by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation. This exclusive luncheon, titled "Giants," featured a lineup of notable figures in broadcasting, including Al Roker, Mike McVay, and Wendy McMahon, with the event emceed by the esteemed Bill Whitaker from 60 Minutes. Smith took to his Instagram Story to share his excitement about the event, expressing his honor in being invited. Unfortunately for First Take fans, this commitment meant he had to miss the show, which airs at 10 am ET every weekday.
While Smith’s absence raised eyebrows, it was a perfect opportunity for Qerim to step back into the spotlight. She had been absent the previous day, replaced by SportsCenter anchor Shae Cornette, which left many viewers wondering when they would see their favorite host again. On Monday, Cornette filled in alongside Dan Orlovsky and Stephen A., but fans were quick to express their longing for Qerim. Social media was abuzz with comments like, "Where is @mollyqerim?" and "I’m missing Molly. The only reason I watch @FirstTake."
Qerim’s return was met with enthusiasm, as she hosted alongside Shannon Sharpe, who has also become a fan favorite since joining the show after leaving Fox Sports’ Undisputed. The chemistry between Qerim and Sharpe added a fresh dynamic to the show, which has seen a surge in viewership since their collaboration. In 2023, First Take averaged an impressive 496,000 viewers, making it the most-watched year in the program’s history. The show’s December average soared to 611,000, reflecting a 24% increase from the previous year. With over 250 million views on YouTube, it’s clear that the combination of Smith, Qerim, and Sharpe has resonated with audiences.
The excitement surrounding Qerim’s return is not just about her hosting skills; it’s also about her unique style and engaging personality. Since becoming the host of First Take in 2015, she has captivated viewers with her insightful opinions and stunning outfits. With over 683,000 followers on Instagram, Qerim has built a loyal fanbase that eagerly anticipates her insights on sports and pop culture.
Interestingly, Qerim’s absence last month was due to a planned vacation and illness, which left fans missing her presence on the show. Her return this week has been a breath of fresh air, and the audience’s reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers expressed their joy on social media, with many commenting on how much they missed her and hoping for her continued presence on the show.
As for Stephen A. Smith, his commitment to the broadcasting event showcased his dedication to the industry. While fans may have missed him on First Take, his attendance at such prestigious gatherings highlights the importance of networking and collaboration in the world of sports media. Smith’s ability to balance his commitments while maintaining his presence on the show is a testament to his professionalism and passion for sports journalism.
In the competitive landscape of sports talk shows, First Take has managed to carve out a niche for itself, thanks in large part to the dynamic trio of Smith, Qerim, and Sharpe. Their engaging discussions and lively debates keep viewers coming back for more, making it a must-watch for NFL fans. The chemistry among the hosts, combined with their unique perspectives, creates an atmosphere that resonates with audiences.
As the NFL season progresses, fans can look forward to more exciting discussions and debates on First Take. With Qerim back in the mix, viewers can expect a blend of insightful analysis, spirited arguments, and, of course, plenty of entertaining moments. Whether it’s breaking down game highlights, discussing player performances, or sharing their thoughts on the latest NFL news, the trio is sure to keep fans engaged and entertained.
In summary, Molly Qerim’s return to First Take has been a welcome development for fans, especially with Stephen A. Smith’s absence for an important event. The show’s impressive viewership numbers and the enthusiastic response from fans underscore the impact of Qerim’s presence. As the NFL season heats up, there’s no doubt that First Take will continue to be a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts seeking in-depth analysis and lively debate.
