Shay Cornette is set to make waves on the set of “First Take.” The former “SportsCenter” anchor is stepping in to host, taking over from Stephen A. Smith as he transitions into a new role starting Monday.
In an interview, Cornette discussed his new position, which follows Molly Kerim’s unexpected resignation last month. He shared his thoughts on the role and what the tryout process entailed.
“I’m open to discussion. I’m here for it,” Cornette said, noting a desire for more coverage of hockey and Midwest teams.
Passing the Torch
To start, it’s worth mentioning that Cornette, who has served as Kerim’s backup for several years, hasn’t yet communicated with her.
“Molly and I have only met a couple of times,” said Cornette, who has been with ESPN since 2020. “She was always very nice and sweet.”
At 39, he praised Kerim for her decade-long tenure on the show, describing it as no easy feat. “Talking about various topics with different personalities for ten years requires stamina, knowledge, and a lot of grace,” Cornette explained, acknowledging the skills Kerim brought to the role.
“There’s a reason this position is so sought after. She made it look effortless, and I commend her for that. I prefer not to use the word ‘replacement’… it feels more like a new generation’s ‘First Take’ experience,” he added, expressing hope to meet Kerim soon.
Tryout Experience
In previous statements, Burke Magnus, ESPN’s president of content, indicated that before Kerim’s departure announcement, it was decided she would leave when her contract concludes at the end of 2025.
Both sides had disagreements about contract renewal talks. Following this, a host of candidates were auditioned for the hosting position, including Cornette, Amina Smith, MJ Acosta Ruiz, and Courtney Cronin.
Reflecting on the tryout, Cornette remarked, “It was a different process than I’ve been through before, but it was light-hearted.” He knew conversations would unfold after Kerim’s exit but was uncertain how things would play out.
“Initially, we were told it would be an open audition-like situation. I had to be patient; I knew something was coming,” Cornette shared.
Stephen A. Smith
Regarding communication with Smith, Cornette mentioned there wasn’t extensive interaction. “He knew me from previous hosting experience, and we had a quick chat. He asked if I wanted to take the reins, and I was on board,” Cornette said.
“That simplicity in our conversation was refreshing. I also have an agent who communicates often with ESPN,” he added, emphasizing his desire for his performance to shine through.
Cornette began his broadcasting journey with the Big Ten Network, later covering the Bears at Fox 32 in Chicago. She holds degrees in broadcast journalism and kinesiology from Indiana University.
Home Life
Shay and her husband, Jordan, first met while working together in Chicago. They settled in Bristol when he began his role at ESPN’s radio station. Connecticut holds special significance for them, as they welcomed two children, Joey, 3, and Saylor, 2.
Jordan has a 17-year-old son, Carter, from a previous relationship, and the family has an English Cream Golden Retriever named Kobe.
They’re also featured in the March/April 2024 issue of a local magazine.
Cornette’s new position requires her to travel to New York, where she will film the show from a newly built studio in Hudson Yards.
She expressed enthusiasm about discovering coffee shops and exploring the city. Her husband, a basketball analyst for NBC Sports, is a former player for Notre Dame and holds the record for the program’s all-time blocks.
A New Era for Cornette
Cornette will kick off her hosting duties from the Dallas desk during the Cowboys vs. Cardinals game on Monday Night Football.
“My husband and I have passionate sports debates, so I’m used to that,” she said of Jordan, who recently celebrated her big break online with a viral tweet congratulating her.
In his tweet, Jordan remarked, “They never made it easy for her. But she won. True boss behavior,” underscoring his pride in her accomplishments.
Cornette clarified that her husband’s comments were misconstrued by some, emphasizing his unwavering support. “He’s a big reason I’m here… He’s always been my biggest cheerleader,” she noted.
Cornette’s celebration of her promotion was low-key, consisting of a special dinner with her husband. “We toasted and acknowledged our transition; it’s the same network, just a bigger spotlight,” she explained, adding, “This is a show I’m familiar with; it’s just going to be larger.”
It’s definitely a new chapter.
