ESPN announced on Tuesday that it had reached a multiyear contract deal with former football tight end, Shannon Sharpe.
The Football Hall of Famer debuted on the First Take show in August 2023 and has collaborated with the outfit since then.
With this new deal in place, Sharpe will play a larger part in the morning program he co-hosts with Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith.
Additionally, Sharpe will appear on other ESPN shows that will be announced later.
First Take has evolved into potentially ESPN’s defining studio program with Smith and Sharpe leading the takes and debates.
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“Being a part of this family has been a blessing. Everything about this relationship with ESPN, Stephen A., and First Take has been tremendous. I am excited to take on more responsibilities and share my skills with a wider audience. The show goes on,” Sharpe said in a statement.
Additionally, Sharpe runs Club Shay Shay, an incredibly popular podcast.
According to an interview with The Hollywood Reporter from last month, Sharpe stated that Bob Iger personally got in touch with him to discuss his future with ESPN after his chat with comedian Katt Williams went viral.
According to ESPN’s head of event and studio production, David Roberts, “Shannon Sharpe has been an incredible addition to the First Take team, enhancing the show’s dynamic with his engaging presence and insightful commentary. Our debates have been elevated by Shannon and Stephen A. Smith’s chemistry, which is one of the main reasons First Take is the best place for morning sports discussion.”
Sharpe’s position on First Take, ESPN’s morning discussion program featuring Stephen A. Smith and host Molly Qerim, will grow as a result of the new agreement.