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SPIFFY STEPHEN A.
Stephen A. Smith spotted outside ESPN studios after ‘rift’ with JJ Redick emerges and issues behind scenes at First Take
Stephen A. is seeking a new contract with ESPN
STEPHEN A. Smith dressed to impress while leaving the ESPN studios.
The First Take host is known for his spiffy suits, and kept up his style last week.
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Stephen A. took on his usual duties of starring on the show alongside Molly Qerim.
After completing the show, Stephen A. remained in his iconic suit before strutting out of the studio.
He kept things simple, sporting a blue suit with a blue tie.
Underneath the suit he wore a spotted shirt to complete the look.
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Stephen A. was also gripping an orange on his way out of the studio, perhaps taking a snack for the road home.
The 56-year-old is continuing his duties as things get tense on the set of First Take.
Stephen A. reportedly hasn't spoken to JJ Redick for weeks, sources confirmed to The U.S. Sun.
Insiders at First Take said Redick didn't "stand for their BS" when Stephen A. and Shannon Sharpe made claims on the show.
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"People on the team told Smith that it is unfair to bash JJ for not being like him," a journalist who works on the show told The U.S. Sun.
"His way is controversial, always being against other people in arguments.
Stephen A. Smith forced into last-minute First Take hosting role after mystery absence of Molly Qerim replacement
"He has criticized Redick for his career choices, which left them not talking to each other in the last few weeks."
"The situation was getting ridiculous," the insider added. "Something had to change."
Something did eventually change, as Redick accepted the position as Los Angeles Lakers head coach.
Any issues with him should come to an end now that he isn't on the show anymore.
That doesn't mean everything is smooth sailing though. Some at the show are still feeling tension.
First Take viewing figures
First Take went from strength to strength under the guidance of Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim last year.
The weekday ESPN debate show averaged 496,000 viewers in 2023 - making it the most-watched year in program history.
Its December average of 611,000 was a 24% year-on-year increase compared to 2022.
The show also reported more than 250 million views on YouTube.
First Take was helped by the addition of Shannon Sharpe alongside Smith and Qerim after he left Fox Sports' Undisputed.
"Everyone works their ass off for the show to be the best on TV, and many tensions have been rising, between journalists, the pundits, and the production crew," said another member of staff.
"It is very annoying to deal with."
It is possible that Stephen A. may not even remain on the show, as he hasn't come to an agreement on a contract extension.
Read More on The US Sun
Stephen A. is seeking $25 million per year, a figure that ESPN has not been willing to match yet.
They offered him a contract of five-years, $90 million.
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