Stephen A. Smith Defends Himself on Fox News After NABJ Award

ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith deepened his public clash with the National Association of Black Journalists by appearing on Fox News's "Hannity" on August 18, 2026, to defend himself against the organization's criticism. The move drew significant backlash from observers who questioned his choice of platform.

The controversy stems from the NABJ's decision to award Smith its annual "Thumbs Down" honor at its convention on August 16, 2026. The organization stated the award was for what it called a "recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports and media," citing remarks about figures such as Rep. Jasmine Crockett and former First Lady Michelle Obama.

In his Fox News appearance, Smith vehemently denied the allegations. "I find it highly offensive that they would label me in this way, give me a thumbs down award specifically for disparaging Black women," Smith told host Sean Hannity. "I want everybody out there to know, there's no such thing. That did not happen. That is a flat out lie."

Smith argued that his commentary represented differences of opinion, not disparagement. He highlighted his personal connections to...