How Molly Qerim’s exit from ESPN’s First Take sent shockwaves across social media

Molly Qerim, the host of the First Take show in the USA, is leaving ESPN after almost two decades with the sports network. A hugely popular sports host in the US, Molly Qerim, has been the main face of First Take since 2015, where she appears with Stephen A Smith.

While the rumours of Molly Qerim leaving ESPN were floating in the media for a while, the 41-year-old presenter confirmed the news on Monday night in a post on Instagram.

Molly Qerim confirms First Take exit

“Now that the news came out earlier than I intended, and not in the way I hoped…” Molly Qerim wrote.

“To my First Take family, 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.

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“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.”

appreciate you https://t.co/1hX3c5Qm5N

— Molly Qerim (@MollyQerim) June 24, 2025

Interestingly, Molly Qerim did not mention anything about leaving ESPN, but as per reports in the Sports Business Journal, she has opted out of a new contract, and her stint will finish by the end of this year.

By adding “Stay tuned :)” at the end of her Instagram post, Molly Qerim indicated that her next endeavour is already decided.

Fans disappointed Molly Qerim leaves First Take

Nonetheless, Molly Qerim’s fans are unhappy that she is leaving ESPN and the First Take debate show.

“Nooooo @MollyQerim this can’t be true!! Damn you @stephenasmith. @FirstTake will never be the same and you will truly be missed,” an emotional fan wrote on X.

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Nooooo @MollyQerim this can't be true!! Damn you @stephenasmith @FirstTake will never be the same and you will truly be missed.#MollyQerim #firsttake #espn #nomoremolly #stephenasmith pic.twitter.com/zKDFI38Hka

— Lamar S. (@LamarS407) September 16, 2025

Another fan said: “Molly Qerim first take 2015-2025 thank you for the memories by end of the year we hope to see you working again in 2026 if this is end thank you for things that you did for everyone @MollyQerim.”

MOLLY QERIM FIRST TAKE 2015-2025 THANK YOU FOR THE MEMORIES BY END OF THE YEAR WE HOPE TO SEE YOU WORKING AGAIN IN 2026 IF THIS IS END THANK YOU FOR THINGS THAT YOU DID FOR EVERYONE @MollyQerim pic.twitter.com/LfVlacE6Bp

— milton vadell butler (@mvdbutler) September 16, 2025

Here are some more reactions:

I had a feeling this was coming https://t.co/syiTkU6qCY

— Doddie | TPVIBE Podcast 🎧☮️ (@dodi_vibe) September 16, 2025

Hold on Molly Qerim leaving first take? ESPN tanking for the number 1 pick like the spurs

— U Not Kobe Bryant To Us (@DOPEITSDAVE_) September 16, 2025

Molly Qerim joined ESPN’s digital/mobile team in 2006, before working as a College Football Live host and presenter for Fantasy Football Now. She started hosting First Take in 2015 after Cari Champion’s promotion to SportsCenter.