Get ready to say goodbye—Molly Qerim, the sharp, passionate voice behind ESPN’s “First Take,” just stunned sports fans by announcing her exit after nearly two decades at the network and almost a full decade as the show’s moderator. Here’s everything to know about Molly’s incredible journey, her reasons for stepping down, and what’s next for the sports media superstar.
From Connecticut Kid to Queen of Sports Debates
Born in New Haven, Connecticut on March 31, 1984, Molly Qerim grew up knowing she wanted a front-row seat to sports history.
With a broadcast journalism degree from Quinnipiac University, Qerim quickly rose from Hartford’s WFSB-TV to anchoring shows for CBS Sports Network, NFL Network, and eventually ESPN, covering everything from UFC and college football to Super Bowls and the NBA Draft.
Her big ESPN break came in 2006, but Qerim truly exploded into national fame as the permanent host of ESPN2’s “First Take” in 2015, where she wrangled the likes of Stephen A. Smith, Max Kellerman, and a revolving door of sports legends into fiery debates—a role that landed her on the “Most Powerful Women in Sports” list and fan-adored Instagram feeds.
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Known for her engaging style, advocacy for women in sports, and her Emmy-winning flair, Qerim also made headlines through her marriage to Jalen Rose, which became frequent social media fodder.
Why Did Molly Qerim Leave ESPN’s “First Take”?
The sports media world went into meltdown when Qerim posted her emotional farewell on Instagram:
“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 the best fans in the world”.
So why step down after ruling the airwaves for so long?
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ESPN reportedly offered her a contract extension, but she declined, choosing to move forward with new opportunities.
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While Qerim hasn’t officially revealed her next plans, she told fans to “stay tuned”—hinting she’s gearing up for fresh adventures, possibly outside sports TV.
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Her exit is scheduled for the end of 2025, marking the end of an era for debate-based sports television.
No replacement for Qerim has been announced yet, but her departure leaves huge shoes to fill. Courtney Cronin has sometimes filled in, but ESPN is in no rush to name a successor.
Through every live debate, viral moment, and relentless rumor mill, Molly Qerim’s legacy as ESPN’s debate queen is secure—and sports fans everywhere are watching what she’ll conquer next.
