Molly Qerim to depart First Take at year end; ESPN to find new host

Molly Qerim, the host of ESPN’s daily debate show First Take, confirmed in a social media post on Tuesday that she will step away from the program, echoing industry reports that she plans to leave the network at the end of the year even as some colleagues described her exit as sudden. The announcement, coming after earlier reports about contract negotiations, leaves questions about timing and what the network’s morning lineup will look like going forward.

In an Instagram Story, Qerim wrote that the news “came out earlier than I intended” and that, “after much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.” She called hosting the show “one of the greatest honors of my career” and thanked viewers and colleagues for “lifelong friendships” and “unforgettable memories.” She concluded her message with a brief tease, writing, “Stay tuned,” without elaborating on her next move.

ESPN’s president of content, Burke Magnus, issued a statement praising Qerim’s contributions and confirming her departure. Magnus wrote that Qerim “has been an integral part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of First Take’s success since joining as host a...