Veteran sportscaster Molly Qerim has confirmed reports that she will leave “ESPN First Take” at the end of 2025.
Qerim noted on Instagram that she didn’t want her departure to be leaked by a journalist, and instead wanted to bid farewell on her own terms. She also expressed excitement about her “next chapter,” of which she did not reveal further details.
“Now that the news came out earlier than I intended, and not in the way I hoped…
“To my First Take family,
“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world.
“I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.
“Stay tuned 🙂
“With love and gratitude, Molly.”
ESPN Confirms Exit
Shortly after Qerim’s statement, Burke Magnus, ESPN’s President of Content, confirmed her departure.
“Molly has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of ‘First Take’s’ success since joining as host a decade ago,” wrote Magnus.
“She elevated the show with her poise, skill and professionalism, while supporting others as a kind and encouraging teammate.
Qerim Turned Down Contract
According to Austin Karp of Sports Business Journal, ESPN offered Qerim a new contract, which she turned down with the intention to leave at the end of the year.
“Molly Qerim, the host of ESPN’s “First Take” since 2015, is leaving the network at the end of the year, sources tell SBJ,” Karp reported on September 15.
“Qerim first started at ESPN in 2006 working on digital/mobile efforts before moving over to the news team in 2008. Sources tell SBJ that ESPN offered Qerim a contract, but she chose to move on. SBJ last year named “First Take” one of the 25 best current sports studio shows.”
Qerim joined ESPN in 2006, where she spent the first four years contributing to digital and mobile platforms, including the popular “Fantasy Football Now” show. Prior to ESPN, she covered college football and basketball for CBS Sports, and also hosted shows such as “NFL AM” and “NFL Fantasy Live” for the NFL Network.
While it’s unknown where Qerim is headed next, ESPN is reportedly already making plans to find her replacement. For the Win’s Charles Curtis has named Courtney Cronin, Joy Taylor, Tony Reali and Evan Cohen as her possible replacements.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Molly Qerim Reacts to Shocking ESPN First Take News appeared first on Heavy Sports.