Shae Cornette Net Worth: What We Know After ESPN First Take Promotion

Shae Cornette has officially been named the new host of ESPN’s hit debate show “First Take,” a major career move that has fans asking about Shae Cornette net worth and how much she could earn in her new role. As of now, her exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed by Cornette or ESPN, but her promotion signals a major step forward in her career and likely her earnings.

The announcement came in October 2025 after Molly Qerim stepped down following nearly a decade on the show. Cornette, who has filled in as guest host several times, will take over as the permanent host beginning November 3, 2025. The move has already received public support from Stephen A. Smith, who praised her “poise, passion, and sports insight.”

Shae Cornette’s Career and Estimated Net Worth

Although no official number has been confirmed, industry estimates place Shae Cornette’s net worth between $1 million and $3 million. These estimates are based on her years in sports media, salary ranges for top ESPN hosts, and other broadcast-related income sources such as appearances, events, and potential endorsements.

Before this new role, Cornette built an impressive résumé at ESPN. She has anchored “SportsCenter,” contributed to NFL coverage, and appeared on multiple studio shows. Her on-air presence and versatility have made her a rising figure in sports media since joining the network in 2020.

Hosting a flagship show like “First Take” is a significant promotion, often accompanied by a substantial salary increase. While ESPN does not reveal individual contracts, top-level hosts at the network frequently earn mid-six-figure salaries annually, with the most high-profile personalities earning well into seven figures. Cornette’s deal is expected to be well above the average sports broadcaster’s salary in the United States, which is typically around $60,000 to $100,000 per year.

It’s also worth noting that television personalities often boost their overall net worth through speaking engagements, brand partnerships, and other media opportunities that arise from increased visibility. As the face of “First Take” alongside Stephen A. Smith, Cornette’s profile is expected to grow significantly in 2025 and beyond.

How Her First Take Role Could Impact Her Future Earnings

“First Take” is one of ESPN’s most-watched daily programs, known for shaping sports debates and setting the agenda for sports media conversations nationwide. Hosting such a show can elevate a broadcaster’s career and market value dramatically. Cornette’s chemistry with Stephen A. Smith and ability to lead high-energy debates will be crucial to the show’s continued success — and to her own earning potential.

Her new visibility could lead to additional opportunities outside ESPN, such as book deals, guest speaking invitations, podcast hosting, or branded partnerships. Each of these avenues could significantly boost her overall net worth in the coming years.

While Shae Cornette net worth remains an estimate today, her promotion to one of ESPN’s most influential platforms positions her for financial growth and long-term success in the sports media industry.

In short, while no official figure is public, Shae Cornette’s net worth is widely believed to be in the low millions and poised to grow as she steps into her new role on “First Take.”

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Shae Cornette’s current net worth?

Estimates place Shae Cornette’s net worth between $1 million and $3 million. This figure is based on her ESPN career, media work, and expected income from her new hosting role.

Q2: When does Shae Cornette officially start on “First Take”?

She will officially take over as the permanent host of “First Take” on November 3, 2025, following Molly Qerim’s departure.

Q3: How much do ESPN hosts typically earn?

Salaries vary widely. Top hosts can earn between $500,000 and $1 million annually, with ESPN’s biggest stars earning much more. Cornette’s new role likely places her in the higher range.

Q4: Will Shae Cornette’s net worth grow after this promotion?

Yes. Hosting “First Take” will raise her profile, increase her salary, and potentially open doors to new revenue streams like endorsements and speaking engagements.

Q5: What is Shae Cornette’s background before ESPN?

Before joining ESPN, Cornette worked in Chicago sports media, including for Fox Sports and WFLD-TV. She joined ESPN in 2020 and quickly rose to national prominence.

References

USA Today. (2025). “Shae Cornette named full-time ‘First Take’ host at ESPN.” October 16, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). “Stephen A. Smith praises Shae Cornette ahead of ‘First Take’ debut.” October 16, 2025.

CNN. (2025). “ESPN announces new ‘First Take’ host after Molly Qerim exit.” October 16, 2025.