Shae Cornette gets the hot seat at ESPN.
The “SportsCenter” anchor will take on hosting duties on “First Take,” the hot-talk sports program built around the oratory and opinions of Stephen A. Smith. She replaces Molly Qerim in the role, who served as the program’s quiet sheriff maintaining a steadfast presence that may not have been the showiest, but which always commanded respect. Qerim had been with “First Take” since 2015, when it was still part of the schedule of ESPN2.
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Cornette, who has been filling in on “First Take” since Qerim’s departure, make her official debut on Monday, Nov. 3. She will wrap her duties on “SportsCenter” on October 25, with a final show.
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“Hosting ‘First Take’ is no easy assignment. It requires confidence, toughness, and real sports insight — and Shae brings all of that and more,” said Smith, in prepared remarks. “:I’ve seen her command the desk with poise and passion every time she’s hosted. She’s the real deal, and I’m thrilled to have her officially join the team.”
Any move at “First Take” probably requires a second or third. The show is one of the most popular programs on ESPN, so much so that the Disney sports-media giant recently agreed to a mammoth new contract with Smith that allows him to offer his take on politics and other topics in venues that aren’t owned by Disney.
Cornette is “meticulous in her preparation, connects naturally with our show’s high-profile personalities, and has a unique ability to keep lively debate engaging and on point,” said David Roberts, executive vice president and executive editor of sports news and entertainment at ESPN. “Her professionalism, presence, and energy make her an ideal fit for ‘First Take’ and a great addition to one of ESPN’s most successful franchises.”
Before moving to “SportsCenter,” Cornette helped host ESPN’s college sports coverage and digital shows during major events. Previously, she worked for Chicago’s Fox station, covering the Bears and leading hier own weekly sports program. She began her career with roles on Big Ten Network and The Chicago Huddle on ABC 7. She graduated from Indiana University with a degree in broadcast journalism and kinesiology.
“I feel ready to step into this role and know I can add to the already successful brand that First Take is,” Cornette said in a statement. “My journey at ESPN has been one of growth, challenge, and opportunity. ‘First Take’s’ energy, perspective and passion represents everything I love about sports, and I’m excited to bring more of that to the debate desk every weekday morning.”