New Host for ESPN’s “First Take”

ESPN has selected its new host for “First Take.” After a month-long trial, Shea Cornett has been chosen to take over from Molly Kerim, according to a report from Front Office Sports.

Molly Kerim, who had been with the show for a decade, abruptly departed from both “First Take” and ESPN last month amid rumors that she would be leaving at the end of the year.

During her time on the show, Kerim expressed on Instagram her sentiments about stepping away, marking it as a significant chapter in her career. She mentioned that hosting the show was an honor, where she had the opportunity to share the screen with many passionate voices in sports.

A few other names also participated in the audition process during that month, including Amina Smith, MJ Acosta Ruiz, Courtney Cronin, and Joe Fortenbaugh.

Stephen A. Smith remains a central figure on the show, working alongside a rotating cast of analysts.

Though Kerim is negotiating her contract, ESPN’s content president, Burke Magnus, noted he believes she might continue with the network, albeit not in a hosting capacity for “First Take.”

The situation changed rapidly after the Sports Business Journal revealed Kerim’s plans to leave the show. Magnus acknowledged the unexpected timing, indicating that they were preparing for a transition, but her contract’s timeline influenced their approach.

Cornett, who is 39, began her career at the Big Ten Network and has served as the afternoon anchor for “SportsCenter.” She recently shared her thoughts on the ups and downs of the broadcasting industry, calling her current role a dream job.

Shay is married to Jordan Cornett, a former basketball player from Notre Dame, and they have two children together. Jordan is involved in basketball analysis for NBC and will be taking on a new role as a sideline reporter next NBA season.