“I could be next,” Stephen A. Smith drops hint on ‘possibly’ getting fired from ESPN
Stephen A. Smith reveals his fears of losing his job at ESPN after the latest layoffs.
Stephen A. Smith (Image via Esquire)
ESPN just went through one of its biggest shakeups recently, letting go of 20 on-air talents. The move saw close colleagues of Stephen A. Smith becoming unemployed overnight. The First Take host was one of the few big names that survived the layoffs, but according to him, there could be a possibility of ESPN laying off more people.
But if we're going to be real about it. Let's deal with reality. This ain't the end. More is coming. And yes, ladies and gentlemen, I could be next.Smith on the ESPN layoffs.
Although firing Smith is unlikely, the First Take star wants to take no chances.
The move came under the directive of Disney CEO Bob Iger’s decision to slash 7,000 jobs, hit ESPN hard, as several prominent personalities were shown the door. Among them were Suzy Kolber, the host of ‘Monday Night Countdown’, and Todd McShay, the network’s NFL Draft expert.
Even some of the biggest names in NBA coverage, such as Jeff Van Gundy, who provided commentary during games, and Jalen Rose, who was part of the NBA Countdown crew, were not spared.
Stephen A. Smith sent a heartfelt message to his former colleagues
Following the massive layoffs by ESPN, Smith relayed a message to his former co-hosts Max Kellerman and Keyshawn Johnson. Interestingly, both Johnson and Kellerman have been on First Take, with Kellerman being Smith’s regular sparring partner from 2016 to 2021.
Keyshawn Johnson, my brother. Now I know him on a far more personal level than I know many others. We've been friends for over 20 years. I'm sad to see him go.Stephen A. Smith said.
Smith also brought up Kellerman’s exit, despite their heated exchanges on the popular sports debate show.
I am not happy that he is gone. We all know what history we had, we all know what happened with he and I parted ways on First Take. I don't want the brother unemployed."he added.
The unprecedented layoffs from ESPN left many in shock as personalities like Kellerman and Johnson were considerable contributors to the operation of the media company.
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Ankush Singh
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