Molly Qerim announced she is leaving ESPN’s First Take after a decade behind the desk.
The news of Qerim’s departure was first reported by Sports Business Journal on Monday, September 15. Qerim, 41, confirmed the report on Tuesday, September 16.
“Now that the news came out earlier than I intended, and not in the way I hoped … To my First Take family, after much reflection I’ve decided that it’s time to close this chapter and step away from First Take,” Qerim shared via her Instagram Story.
She continued, “Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world.”
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Qerim started working at ESPN in 2006 and began hosting First Take in 2015. She has worked alongside Stephen A. Smith for her entire tenure, plus a rotating crew of analysts and guests.
“I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories and the chance to be part of something truly special,” Qerim continued. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.”
She signed off, “Stay tuned :). With love and gratitude, Molly.”
According to Sports Business Journal, Qerim was offered a contract but decided to move on. She is expected to leave the network at the end of the year.
ESPN president of content Burke Magnus addressed Qerim’s departure in a statement on Tuesday.
“Molly has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of First Take’s success since joining as host a decade ago,” Magnus said. “She elevated the show with her poise, skill and professionalism while supporting others as a kind and encouraging teammate. We respect Molly’s decision, wish her the best in the future and thank her for her extraordinary daily commitment to sports fans and ESPN.”
Earlier this year, Qerim opened up about her journey with endometriosis, which she was diagnosed with in 2011.
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“For anyone dealing with a health scare right now, please don’t give up … keep advocating for yourself and know you can be fully restored, regardless of what the medical report says,” Qerim shared via Instagram in March. “Better days are ahead.”
Described by the Mayo Clinic as “a condition in which cells similar to the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, grow outside the uterus” that can cause severe “pelvic pain,” Qerim first discussed her diagnosis with ABC’s Good Morning America in 2018.
“The endometriosis was not just in my reproductive organs, it was everywhere,” Qerim explained. “On my liver, on my intestines. It had all compiled into a cyst, which burst. And then the toxins were all in my body.”
Qerim said she turned to acupuncture as a way to help ease her pain, which she called “a saving grace.”
