Full Breakdown
Stephen A. Smith Presses ESPN to Reinstate Shannon Sharpe on “First Take”
5/12/2026, 12:52:39 PM
Background: Sharpe’s Departure and Legal Settlement
Shannon Sharpe left ESPN’s daily debate program “First Take” after a sexual-assault lawsuit was filed against him. The case was settled for $50 million, and ESPN formally cut ties with Sharpe in July 2025. Since that settlement, Sharpe has not appeared on mainstream television, although he continues to host “Club Shay Shay” and “Nightcap” with former NFL player Chad Ochocinco.
Key Players in the Debate
- Stephen A. Smith – Host of “First Take” and its executive producer, though not an ESPN executive-vice-president.
- Shannon Sharpe – Former co-host of “First Take,” Pro Football Hall of Famer, and subject of the reinstatement request.
- ESPN Executive Leadership – The decision-making body that must approve any talent changes.
- Zach Randolph & Tony Allen – Former NBA players who host the “Out The Mud” podcast where Smith voiced his request.
- Skip Bayless – Former co-host who recently returned to “First Take” as a guest analyst, illustrating ESPN’s willingness to revisit past talent.
- Max Kellerman – Former “First Take” co-host removed after Smith’s earlier intervention, cited as precedent for Smith’s influence.
ESPN’s Current Position
A source familiar with network deliberations told Awful Announcing that Sharpe’s return is “not under consideration.” Smith acknowledged that his role does not grant final authority: he must defer to senior executives who “have to make that decision.” ESPN has thus far maintained its post-settlement stance, keeping Sharpe off the program despite Smith’s advocacy.
Criticism of Sharpe’s Past Conduct
Industry observers note that Sharpe’s tenure was marked by incidents that conflicted with ESPN’s brand image. Notable examples include an Instagram Live broadcast during a sexual encounter and his on-air presence when news of the assault lawsuit broke. These episodes have been described as “headaches” for the network, raising questions about the suitability of a reinstatement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m always going to want him back. The company knows I want him back,” — Stephen A. Smith, ESPN analyst
- “I have bosses to answer to. They have to make that decision. But they already know I want him back. If we can get him back, I want him back, I ain’t apologizing for that to nobody. He was great for me. He was great to me, and I’m not gonna forget that. He was great for the show.” — Stephen A. Smith
- “great for the show” — Stephen A. Smith
- “has called me and been there every step of the way.” — Shannon Sharpe, former co-host
- “I know a lot of people say a lot of things about Stephen A.,but all I can attest to is the way Stephen A. is with Shannon. And he’s been great.” — Shannon Sharpe
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the likelihood of a reinstatement. While an ESPN-informed source says Sharpe is “not under consideration,” Smith repeatedly asserts that the network “knows” his desire to bring Sharpe back. ESPN has not issued a public statement clarifying its position, and Sharpe’s own willingness to return remains unconfirmed.
Outlook: What May Come Next
Smith’s continued public advocacy, including recent remarks on the “Out The Mud” podcast, suggests the issue will stay on ESPN’s agenda. No timeline has been provided for a potential decision, and any change will depend on senior executives’ assessment of Sharpe’s past controversies versus the perceived value of his on-air chemistry with Smith.
