Famous TV personality Stephen A. Smith has certainly taken ESPN’s show ‘First Take’ to new heights. His candid approach and no-nonsense style of speaking have surely garnered an audience, especially in the last two years. With that in mind, the executive producer-cum-analyst is nearing the end of his show’s contract in July 2025. One would surely see Smith extend the deal with ESPN, however, the future might have some other plans for the 56-year-old.
Burke Magnus, the President of Content in the company has revealed that negotiations are underway for a new deal. A balanced deal is what ESPN wants for Stephen, so both parties are content. However, talks of his uncertain future are floating around the market and people are wondering why.
Stephen A. Smith has an Apparent Plan to Become the Richest TV Personality
Various reports suggest that ESPN has put in a ‘fair’ $18 million offer on the table for Stephen A. Smith. This proposal matches legendary NFL commentator Troy Aikman’s salary, who reportedly earns the same. It seems like the media company has no problems paying a hefty sum but it is Smith who is looking for more. His agency, WME is the one handling the entire negotiation process with the broadcasters.
Stephen A. Smith has publicly expressed his desire to become the highest-paid TV personality. He is often seen boasting his show as the ‘best’ in the world, across different platforms like shows, podcasts, etc. While his words might be true, Burke has justified Aikman’s salary, calling him a true talent. On a recent podcast “Sports Media with Richard Deistch” the ESPN executive highlighted the significance of talking during live games as opposed to doing a daytime show.
According to Burke, live events are something that hold the utmost value and require special talent to handle, resulting in more money.
Is Stephen’s $25 million deal a Dream or a Reality?
In a pursuit to become the highest-paid TV host, Stephen A. Smith is reportedly demanding $25 million per year for his new deal. This will surpass Troy’s current deal by $7 million, who is the No. 1 on the list at present, declaring Smith the winner by a long mile. However, the negotiations are still at the early stage and the chances of this deal happening seems unlikely.
Meanwhile, Stephen has expressed his desire to get more involved in the NFL’s direct coverage. If he manages to do that, then based on Burke’s logic of covering live events, there could be a case for Smith to make more money. It will all boil down to whether the lead analyst has the skills and talent to lead a live game.
The Future of First Take With/Without Stephen A. Smith?
Multiple reports say that ESPN is ready to offer a five-year $90 million contract to Stephen A. Smith, which will start once his current contract expires in July 2025. If he accepts the offer, the show, First Take, will see Smith leading it once again. If not, then the company will have no choice but to continue the show with someone else in place. Burke cleared the air regarding Stephen’s future and showed optimism while being a realist at the same time. He said:
‘First Take’ would continue. Obviously, we figure that out. There’s the great part about the environment that we live in and I sort of credit the YouTube, independent creator ecosystem that exists in today’s world. There’s never been more people, in my opinion, and more access to more talent than there is today.
Burke’s closing statement includes his regards for Stephen A. Smith. He called the TV personality the most hardworking person in the company. Therefore, there are still hopes the two sides will find a neutral deal in the end.