Stephen A. Smith to get a new cast of characters to debate on new-look ‘First Take’
ESPN unveiled what “First Take” will look like — or sound like — starting next week.
In comes Hall of Famer Michael Irvin and NFL bust Tim Tebow as Max Kellerman — the versatile, long-time voice for the World Wide Leader — exits for a new expanded radio role at ESPN.
Stephen A. Smith — ESPN’s biggest star — remains the focus of the debate show, a role he has held on the show since 2012. Molly Qerim will continue in her position, as the show’s host, as well. But with the third regular open spot now vacant, the network has decided to fill it with a rotating roster of guests.
Ex-Cowboys great Irvin will now be on every Monday through the NFL season in the third chair. Tebow — the Heisman Trophy winner, turned failed NFL QB, turned minor league baseball flameout — will be on the show every Friday through the college football season.
The rest of the week will feature a cast of some of the biggest names in sports including: Los Angeles Sparks forward Chiney Ogwumike, Olympic Gold medalist and baseball analyst Jessica Mendoza, and longtime NFL reporter Kimberley A. Martin. Other names listed in ESPN’s press release include Mina Kimes, Dan Orlovsky, Marcus Spears and ex-Jet Damien Woody.
“This new format will pair Smith with new voices and perspectives every day of the week who will challenge him on their specific area of expertise in a completely new way,” the show’s producer, Antoine Lewis, said in the release. “Stephen A., Molly and a lineup of A-list guests will definitely continue to provide fans with all they’ve come to expect from “First Take” and much more. We’re excited to get going!”
Kellerman’s last episode of “First Take” aired Sept. 1 and the new format is slated to begin on Monday.
