Stephen A. Smith’s $100M ESPN Deal: What You Need to Know
Inside Stephen A. Smith’s $100M ESPN Contract
Discover Stephen A. stephen a smith contract with espn, its impact on First Take, and what it means for fans and sports media.
Picture yourself flipping on ESPN’s First Take, coffee in hand, ready for Stephen A. Smith’s bold takes. Love him or not, his voice drives sports debates. In March 2025, he inked a massive five-year, $100 million contract with ESPN, sparking buzz about his salary, role, and future. Let’s break down what this deal means, why it matters, and how it affects fans like you.
Key Takeaways:
- Stephen A. Smith’s new ESPN contract pays him $20 million a year through 2030.
- He’ll focus on First Take but step back from regular NBA Countdown appearances.
- The deal lets him explore political commentary, like his podcast and Fox News gigs.
- First Take’s soaring ratings (up 24% in 2024) justify its hefty paycheck.
- Fans are split: some cheer his success, others question the cost amid ESPN layoffs.
Key Details of the stephen a smith contract with espn
Contract Terms and Salary
Stephen A. Smith’s new deal, signed in March 2025, locks him in with ESPN for five years at $100 million $20 million a year. That’s a big jump from his 2019 contract, which paid $12 million annually. He’s still the star of First Take, serving as host and executive producer, but he’s no longer tied to regular NBA Countdown appearances. The contract also gives him freedom to chase outside projects, like his podcast, The Stephen A. Smith Show, or guest spots on Fox News and HBO. Imagine him debating politics on your favorite talk show that’s now on the table.
Negotiation Timeline
Getting to $100 million wasn’t easy. Talks kicked off in late 2024, with ESPN offering $18 million a year. Smith, knowing his worth, pushed for $25 million and more flexibility. By March 2025, they settled at $20 million, plus the freedom to explore non-ESPN ventures. Back in December 2024, he shot down rumors of a $120 million deal, saying on his podcast, “Don’t believe everything you read!” ESPN’s chairman, Jimmy Pitaro, called him a “difference maker,” sealing the deal with confidence in his star power.
Impact on First Take and ESPN
Ratings and ROI
First Take is a ratings juggernaut, and Smith is its engine. In 2024, the show averaged 482,000 viewers daily, with a peak of 611,000 in December 2023—a 24% jump from the prior year. Compare that to Skip Bayless’ Undisputed, which tanked and got canceled in 2024. Smith’s bold style keeps fans glued, whether they’re cheering or rolling their eyes. Want to catch First Take without cable? ESPN’s new standalone streaming app, launching in 2025, has you covered.
ESPN’s Strategy Amid Cord-Cutting
ESPN is navigating a tricky landscape. Cord-cutting is real—experts predict a 20–30% drop in cable audiences by 2030. Yet, Smith’s deal shows ESPN is doubling down on big names to stay relevant. The network’s launching a standalone streaming app in 2025, banking on stars like Smith to pull viewers. But there’s tension: ESPN’s parent, Disney, cut 200 jobs in 2025, after slashing 20+ talents in 2023–2024 to save $30 million. Fans on X are vocal, asking why Smith gets $100 million while colleagues lose jobs. His ratings, though, make a strong case for the investment.
Smith’s Evolving Role
From Sports to Politics
Smith’s not just a sports guy anymore. His contract lets him dive deeper into political commentary, building on his podcast and appearances on Fox News. In 2024, he openly supported Kamala Harris, and some fans are buzzing about a possible 2028 political run. Picture him trading barbs on a debate stage instead of with Molly Qerim. But not everyone’s thrilled—some fans want him to stick to sports, worried his political takes could overshadow First Take’s basketball vibe.
Production Company Ventures
Smith’s production company, Mr. SAS/Straight Shooter, is another big piece of this puzzle. The deal expands his role as an executive producer, hinting at new projects beyond First Take. Could he create content for ESPN BET or other platforms? Details are scarce, but his company’s growing influence suggests more than just talk shows. This gap in coverage—most articles skip his production work—shows there’s more to Smith’s future than meets the eye.
Comparisons with Media Peers
Salary Benchmarks
At $20 million a year, Smith’s among the highest-paid in sports media, especially as a Black personality. Compare that to Pat McAfee ($17 million, including licensing), Troy Aikman ($18 million), or Tom Brady’s massive $37.5 million at Fox. Smith’s pay reflects his pull—First Take outshines rivals, and he’s a cultural force. But with ESPN’s layoffs hitting diverse talent hard, some fans wonder if his deal sets a precedent or highlights inequity.
Rivals and Ratings
Smith’s edge over competitors is clear. While First Take hit 496,000 average viewers in 2023, Bayless’ Undisputed struggled, pulling just a fifth of that before its cancellation. Smith’s debates with co-hosts like Molly Qerim keep fans hooked, unlike flatter rival shows. His recent clash with LeBron James in March 2025—calling out LeBron’s playoff prep—only boosted his buzz, even if it split fans.
Fan Reactions and Controversies
Salary Debates
Fans are divided. On Reddit and X, 40% of comments call Smith “overpaid,” especially with ESPN’s layoffs fresh in mind. Picture a fan venting online: “Why’s he getting $100 million while others get pink slips?” But supporters point to his numbers—First Take’s 611,000 viewers in December 2023 prove he’s worth it. To put it in perspective, his salary is a third of NFL star Dak Prescott’s $60 million a year, yet Smith’s reach is arguably broader.
Political Pivot Concerns
Smith’s political ambitions stir mixed feelings. Some fans love his bold takes on issues like voting rights, but others want him focused on hoops. One X post summed it up: “Stick to sports, Stephen!” His contract’s flexibility could amplify this divide, especially if he ramps up political content. A tip for fans: Check his podcast for the latest on his views—it’s where he’s most unfiltered.
Addressing Layoff Backlash
The layoffs sting. Disney’s 2025 cuts and ESPN’s 2023–2024 purge fuel fan frustration. Why prioritize one star over others? Smith’s defenders argue his unique draw—outpacing every ESPN show in 2023—makes him essential. If you’re upset about the cuts, consider this: his ratings help secure ESPN’s budget for future hires. Still, it’s a tough pill for fans seeing beloved analysts let go.
What’s Next for Smith and ESPN?
Streaming and NBA Shifts
Smith’s reduced NBA Countdown role raises questions. With ESPN taking over TNT’s Inside the NBA in 2025, will he make guest appearances? His lighter schedule suggests flexibility, but fans worry First Take might lose its basketball edge. If you’re a cord-cutter, ESPN’s 2025 streaming app will keep you in the loop—perfect for catching Smith’s takes without a cable bill.
Political Ambitions
Could Smith run in 2028? His contract doesn’t block it, and he’s teased big plans. No penalties for an early exit have been reported, but ESPN likely has safeguards. Want to track his political moves? His podcast is your best bet—it’s where he’s testing the waters. Fans are curious but cautious, unsure if politics will dilute his sports legacy.
Long-Term Industry Impact
Smith’s deal reflects broader trends. Sports media salaries are up 20–50% for top talent, but ESPN’s betting on stars like Smith to counter cord-cutting. The 2025 streaming app is a big test can Smith pull digital viewers like he does on TV? His success could shape how networks balance big contracts with budget cuts in a shrinking cable market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Stephen A. Smith’s ESPN salary?
Stephen A. Smith earns $20 million annually under his new five-year, $100 million contract with ESPN, signed in March 2025, a significant increase from his previous $12 million per year deal.
Is Stephen A. Smith leaving ESPN?
No, Stephen A. Smith is not leaving ESPN. His new contract, signed in March 2025, extends his tenure through 2030, debunking earlier rumors and securing his role as First Take’s lead host.
What shows will Smith appear on?
Smith will primarily host and produce First Take, with reduced appearances on NBA Countdown. His contract allows guest spots and external projects, like his podcast and political commentary on Fox News or HBO.
Why did Smith get a raise?
Smith’s $20 million salary reflects First Take’s strong ratings, averaging 611,000 viewers in December 2023 (up 24% year-over-year). His unique draw and cultural impact justify the raise despite ESPN’s budget cuts.
Can Smith do political commentary?
Yes, his contract allows political commentary on platforms like his podcast, The Stephen A. Smith Show, and appearances on Fox News or HBO, giving him freedom to explore non-sports ventures. (330 characters)
What is Stephen A. Smith’s net worth?
Stephen A. Smith’s net worth was estimated at $20–25 million before his $100 million deal in 2025. By 2030, it could reach $40 million or more, factoring in his ESPN salary and external ventures.
Key Takeaway
Stephen A. Smith’s $100 million ESPN deal cements his First Take legacy while opening doors to politics and production. Fans may debate his paycheck, but his ratings prove his worth. Want to keep up? Tune into First Take on ESPN’s 2025 streaming app or follow his podcast for the latest.
