Who Is Shae Cornette? ESPN Names Her Full-Time ‘First Take’ Host with Stephen A. Smith’s Approval

Shae Cornette has officially been named the full-time host of ESPN’s flagship debate show “First Take,” stepping into the role with the support and endorsement of Stephen A. Smith. Her first official appearance is set for November 3, marking a significant new chapter for the long-running morning program.

The move follows the unexpected departure of longtime host Molly Qerim, who left the show in September after a decade due to reported contract disagreements. Cornette, who has served as a fill-in host in recent weeks, now takes center stage as the permanent moderator alongside Smith and the show’s rotating cast of analysts.

Shae Cornette’s Rise: From Chicago Radio to ESPN’s Debate Desk

Cornette joined ESPN in 2020, bringing with her a wealth of experience from radio and television stations in Chicago. She quickly became a familiar face as a “SportsCenter” anchor and studio host, earning praise for her sharp sports insight and engaging on-air presence. Her final “SportsCenter” broadcast is scheduled for October 25 before she fully transitions into her new role.

Stephen A. Smith, who also serves as an executive producer of “First Take,” praised Cornette’s talent and readiness for the position. “Hosting ‘First Take’ is no easy assignment. It requires confidence, toughness, and real sports insight — and Shae brings all of that and more,” Smith said in a statement. “I’ve seen her command the desk with poise and passion every time she’s hosted. She’s the real deal.”

Cornette expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, calling it a natural next step in her ESPN journey. “I feel ready to step into this role and know I can add to the already successful brand that ‘First Take’ is,” she said. “From my days in radio to hosting ‘SportsCenter’ and now ‘First Take,’ my journey has been one of growth, challenge, and opportunity.”

David Roberts, ESPN’s executive vice president, echoed those sentiments, describing Cornette as “meticulous in her preparation” and skilled at keeping high-energy debates “engaging and on point.” He emphasized that her “professionalism, presence, and energy make her an ideal fit” for the network’s flagship debate program.

What Shae Cornette’s Appointment Means for ‘First Take’

Shae Cornette’s arrival as full-time host comes at a pivotal time for “First Take.” The show remains one of ESPN’s highest-rated weekday programs, airing Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. ET to noon. With Cornette at the helm, ESPN aims to build on the show’s success while injecting fresh energy and perspective into the daily debates.

Her appointment also marks a broader industry trend: networks placing women in prominent roles traditionally dominated by men. Cornette’s commanding presence and sports acumen have already earned praise from both colleagues and viewers. Fans online have responded positively to her guest-host appearances, with many calling her a “natural fit” for the desk.

The transition follows Molly Qerim’s abrupt exit after 10 years as host. While details of her departure remain limited, reports point to contract disagreements as the primary reason. Cornette now inherits a role that demands not only knowledge and composure but also the ability to manage heated debates and strong personalities — a challenge Smith believes she’s more than ready for.

As ESPN continues to evolve its programming strategy, Cornette’s promotion signals a commitment to fresh talent and diverse voices. Her background, from Chicago sports radio to national television anchor, positions her well to guide “First Take” into its next era.

Shae Cornette’s journey from local radio to one of ESPN’s most visible platforms highlights her dedication, expertise, and growth. With Stephen A. Smith’s backing and ESPN’s confidence, she is set to become one of the most influential voices in sports media.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Shae Cornette?

Shae Cornette is a sports broadcaster who joined ESPN in 2020. She has anchored “SportsCenter” and hosted various radio and TV programs before becoming the full-time host of “First Take.”

Q2: When will Shae Cornette officially start hosting ‘First Take’?

Shae Cornette’s first official episode as full-time host will air on November 3, 2025, following her final “SportsCenter” appearance on October 25.

Q3: Why did Molly Qerim leave ‘First Take’?

Molly Qerim, who hosted the show for a decade, left in September 2025 reportedly due to contract disagreements with ESPN.

Q4: What has Stephen A. Smith said about Shae Cornette?

Stephen A. Smith praised Cornette’s confidence, toughness, and sports insight, calling her “the real deal” and a strong addition to the “First Take” team.

Q5: What time does ‘First Take’ air?

“First Take” airs weekdays on ESPN from 10 a.m. ET to noon.