Stephen A. Smith won’t be leaving ESPN anytime soon, because he just signed a multiyear deal to keep him with the sports network through 2030.
“I’m happy and honored to remain a member of the Disney/ESPN family for, at least, the next five years,” Smith said in a Friday statement. “There’s only bigger and bigger things ahead. It starts with continuing to put in that work. See y’all soon.”
“Stephen A. works incredibly hard to elevate the sports conversation day-in and day-out and we are grateful he will remain at ESPN,” chairman Jimmy Pitaro added. “He is a difference maker, and fans are captivated by his deep sports knowledge, strong opinions and unmistakable flair.”
The contract renewal will see Smith remain on weekday morning studio debate show “First Take” as featured commentator and executive producer, in addition to other appearances across the network. He joined ESPN in 2003 and has been with “First Take” since 2012. He has also worked on “The Sports Reporters,” “SportsCenter” and “Pardon the Interruption,” to name a few.
The Athletic was first to report the contract renewal, which noted that sources put the deal at an estimated $100 million price tag. The report also stated Smith’s terms will allow him to speak more openly about politics.
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