Why Molly Qerim is leaving host job with ESPN's First Take

Billy Heyen

Why Molly Qerim is leaving host job with ESPN's First Take image

Molly Qerim initially became the host of First Take on ESPN as a fill-in.

That was in 2015, and she never left.

A decade later, Qerim has decided her time with the popular debate show will be coming to an end.

Her years of keeping Stephen A. Smith and his adversaries in line don't have an official end date yet, but Qerim made it clear that she'll be moving on.

Why is Molly Qerim leaving First Take?

Qerim posted on her Instagram Story on Monday night that she'll be leaving the show.

This is what she wrote:

“After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. 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. 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. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes.”

According to Sports Business Journal, Qerim was offered a new contract by ESPN, but she opted to move on.

Qerim also posted the words "Stay tuned" on her Instagram Story, so it's likely that she already knows what's next.

For now, all that's known for sure is that at some point, Qerim will host her last First Take episode.

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Billy Heyen

Billy Heyen is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is a 2019 graduate of Syracuse University who has written about many sports and fantasy sports for The Sporting News. Sports reporting work has also appeared in a number of newspapers, including the Sandusky Register and Rochester Democrat & Chronicle