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Tag: Stephen A Smith

  • Stephen A. Smith Hurt by Kevin Hart’s Roast Joke

    It’s no secret that Stephen A. Smith wears his emotions on his sleeve, especially when his reputation is on the line. So, it’s understandable that the ESPN commentator was left feeling dejected after comedian Kevin Hart included him in a controversial ‘Mt. Rushmore of racism’ during a recent roast.

    A ‘Low Blow’ from a Friend

    Hart’s joke placed Smith alongside figures like Shane Gillis, Hulk Hogan, and Kid Rock, a comparison that clearly stung. In a response on his show ‘Straight Shooter,’ Smith expressed his surprise and hurt, noting his long-standing positive relationship with Hart. ‘I thought I had a pretty damn good relationship with Kevin Hart,’ Smith stated. ‘He’s been on my show on many occasions. I’ve known him for years.’

    While Smith acknowledged that Hart might have intended it as a joke, he emphasized the personal impact of hearing such remarks from someone he respects. ‘Kevin Hart may have been telling a joke… I have an issue at the fact that it came from him… A guy I have a lot of love and respect for… People try to continue this narrative about me that I know is false… It stung.’

    The Controversy Surrounding the Roast

    The Kevin Hart roast has been a subject of controversy for multiple reasons. Jokes referencing George Floyd were widely criticized as being in poor taste, and questions were raised about the perceived lack of diversity in the writers’ room, with some feeling that the roast allowed anti-Black sentiments to pass unchecked.

    Smith himself has faced accusations of being anti-Black in the past, a narrative he vehemently denies. He recalled a past incident where Terrell Owens suggested Max Kellerman was ‘blacker’ than him, an implication that clearly upset Smith at the time. Given this history, Smith believes Hart’s inclusion of him in the ‘Mt. Rushmore of racism’ was a particularly low blow.

    Increased Scrutiny in the Spotlight

    As Stephen A. Smith continues to be a prominent figure in sports television and expands his influence into politics, he faces increased scrutiny regarding his public statements and views. It’s perhaps in this heightened spotlight that jokes, even those intended humorously, can land with significant weight and unintended consequences.

    What are your thoughts on Kevin Hart’s joke about Stephen A. Smith? Do you think it crossed a line, or is it all in good fun? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • Stephen A. Smith Defends LeBron James’ Legacy

    Hold onto your hats, basketball fans! Stephen A. Smith found himself in a familiar, yet surprising, position: defending LeBron James. This time, the target of his passionate defense was none other than his former debate partner, Skip Bayless, who dropped a bombshell ranking during Bayless’s return to ESPN’s ‘First Take’.

    The Shocking LeBron Ranking

    Bayless, appearing alongside Smith and host Shae Cornette, declared that he ranks LeBron James as the ninth-greatest player in NBA history. This declaration came as a shock, especially since Bayless had previously placed James at number two on his all-time list. Smith’s reaction was one of utter disbelief.

    “For the audience to have to be subjected to this drivel that’s about to come out of your mouth,” Smith exclaimed, clearly incredulous. “LeBron James. You got me defending LeBron James.” He questioned how anyone could possibly pick eight other players ahead of the Lakers superstar.

    Bayless’s Controversial Justification

    Bayless attempted to justify his controversial ranking by naming legends like Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Kobe Bryant, and Larry Bird as players he’d “trust with games for my life” over James. He even went as far as to call James “the most mentally fragile superstar I have ever closely observed” and suggested he was “lucky to be in the top 10.”

    Smith, never one to back down, fired back, labeling Bayless’s comments as “one of the most asinine things that have ever come out of your mouth.” The fiery exchange highlights the ongoing debate surrounding LeBron James’s place in basketball history, a topic that consistently ignites passionate discussions among fans and analysts alike.

    Do you agree with Skip Bayless’s ranking of LeBron James, or do you side with Stephen A. Smith? Share your all-time top 10 in the comments below!

  • Cam’ron’s Wild LeBron/Jordan Take Stuns Stephen A. Smith

    Get ready for a sports debate moment for the ages! Rapper Cam’ron recently dropped by ESPN’s ‘First Take,’ and his appearance led to a hilariously baffling exchange with Stephen A. Smith about LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Cam’ron, known for his unique takes, really outdid himself this time.

    The GOAT Debate Gets a Killa Twist

    The conversation naturally turned to the NBA Playoffs, specifically the upcoming series between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers. With Luka Doncic out, the debate shifted to whether LeBron James could elevate himself to GOAT status by winning a championship against the league’s best, potentially tying Michael Jordan’s six rings.

    This is where Cam’ron dropped his legendary hot take. He argued that if LeBron won this season, he’d have six rings. Stephen A. Smith, ever the analyst, immediately questioned this, pointing out that LeBron would only have five. But Cam’ron’s explanation? Pure gold.

    Cam’ron’s Six-Ring Logic

    In Cam’ron’s unique calculation, the ‘James family household’ would achieve six rings because LeBron’s son, Bronny, would also receive a championship ring. Yes, you read that right. The logic was so out-there that even co-host Kendrick Perkins couldn’t contain his laughter.

    In Cam’ron’s mind, the James family household would have a total of six rings, because Bronny would also be getting a championship ring. — Alexander Cole, HotNewHipHop

    Stephen A. Smith, meanwhile, was left utterly exasperated. His reaction perfectly captured the absurdity of the take, making for an unforgettable television moment. It’s precisely these kinds of unpredictable and entertaining segments that make Cam’ron a welcome guest on sports media.

    A Welcome Return to First Take

    Despite past controversies, like his infamous CNN interview, Cam’ron’s continued presence on shows like ‘First Take’ highlights his enduring appeal and ability to generate buzz. His friendship with Stephen A. Smith clearly allows for these kinds of candid and entertaining interactions.

    With upcoming appearances from Skip Bayless, it seems ESPN is leaning into these dynamic personalities to keep viewers engaged. And honestly, who can blame them when moments like Cam’ron’s ring count logic happen?

    What do you think of Cam’ron’s wild take on LeBron’s rings? Did Stephen A. Smith overreact, or was Cam’ron completely off base? Share your thoughts in the comments!

  • Stephen A. Smith Misses Molly Qerim

    It seems like even the most seasoned sports personalities have moments of missing familiar faces. Stephen A. Smith, a prominent voice on ESPN’s “First Take,” recently opened up about how much he misses his former co-host and friend, Molly Qerim. While he’s fully embraced the new moderator, Shae Cornette, his heartfelt words reveal a deep personal connection to Qerim.

    Praise for the New Moderator

    Smith was quick to praise Shae Cornette, who has stepped into the moderator role on “First Take.” He described her as “outstanding” and “thorough as hell,” expressing pride in her work over the past few months. It’s clear he respects Cornette’s abilities and is happy with her performance on the flagship ESPN program.

    However, when discussing Qerim, Smith’s tone shifts to a more personal one. He explained on Cam Newton’s show, “Funky Friday,” that their friendship goes beyond the professional realm. “She and I are friends,” Smith stated. “I miss her, I got a lot of love for her, [and] she’s very near and dear to me.”

    A Deepening Friendship

    Smith elaborated on the depth of their bond, noting that Qerim had confided in him about many personal matters over the years, which only strengthened their friendship. “Over the last few years she’s confided in me a lot. Trusted me with a lot of things and our friendship only grew,” he shared. He emphasized that his feelings are not a slight against Cornette, but rather a reflection of an 11-year friendship with Qerim.

    Despite his demanding schedule, which limits casual phone calls, Smith assured that Qerim knows she can always reach out to him. He stressed his commitment to maintaining their friendship, regardless of their professional roles.

    Qerim’s Departure and Lingering Rumors

    It’s worth noting that Molly Qerim resigned from “First Take” late last year due to a contract dispute, not because she was fired. Smith himself confirmed this on his show, expressing his sadness over her departure after a decade as partners. He acknowledged that such transitions can be uncomfortable.

    Despite Smith’s clear statements about their platonic friendship, rumors about a secret relationship between him and Qerim, even during her marriage to Jalen Rose, have persisted. Smith has previously denied any romantic involvement.

    What are your thoughts on Stephen A. Smith’s heartfelt message about Molly Qerim? Do you miss seeing them together on “First Take”? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Stephen A. Smith Fires Back at Steve Stoute’s ‘Clout Chaser’ Comment

    Stephen A. Smith, known for his fiery takes and passionate delivery on ESPN’s ‘First Take,’ is firing back after hearing comments made by executive Steve Stoute. During a conversation with Rich Kleiman, Stoute suggested that Smith is no longer driven by journalism but rather by fame and fortune, labeling him a “clout chaser.”

    Smith’s Fiery Response

    Smith, never one to shy away from a public debate, addressed Stoute’s remarks directly on his show. He vehemently denied the accusation, asserting that his primary motivation has always been telling the truth. Smith didn’t just defend himself; he turned the criticism back on Stoute, suggesting that Stoute himself needs to mention Smith’s name to gain attention and clicks.

    The ESPN pundit then shifted his focus to Rich Kleiman, who was reportedly in agreement with Stoute’s assessment. Smith highlighted that he’s recently faced criticism from various figures, including NASCAR driver Joey Logano, for his controversial opinions, such as questioning whether race car drivers are athletes. It seems Smith has cultivated a reputation that attracts both admiration and strong opposition.

    A Pattern of Controversy?

    Smith’s career has been marked by numerous high-profile opinions and, consequently, a string of public disagreements. While his dramatic style has undoubtedly boosted his profile and appeal, it also appears to be creating a growing list of adversaries. The constant stream of “beefs” and controversies, as described, could eventually lead to audience fatigue, raising questions about long-term engagement.

    Whether Smith is truly motivated by fame and money, as Stoute suggests, or by a genuine passion for truth and analysis, remains a subject of debate. However, his willingness to engage directly with critics and defend his position is a testament to his assertive approach to media commentary.

    What do you think about Stephen A. Smith’s response to Steve Stoute? Is Smith a “clout chaser,” or is he simply a passionate journalist? Share your views in the comments below!

  • Stephen A. Smith Weighs In On Megan Thee Stallion Breakup

    Stephen A. Smith, known for his passionate takes on everything from sports to pop culture, has weighed in on the recent drama surrounding Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson. The ESPN commentator didn’t hold back his opinions on the rapper’s public announcement of their breakup.

    Smith’s Take on Public Breakups

    On his show ‘Straight Shooter,’ Smith addressed Megan’s Instagram post where she accused Thompson of infidelity and erratic behavior. While acknowledging that Thompson’s alleged actions weren’t honorable, Smith argued that such private matters shouldn’t be broadcasted so dramatically to the public, especially since the couple wasn’t married.

    He believes that many personal relationship issues should remain private, suggesting that airing them publicly can lead to unnecessary escalation. This perspective aligns with Smith’s often outspoken and traditional views on handling sensitive personal information.

    A Divisive Opinion

    The situation between Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson has certainly generated a lot of buzz, with fans and commentators offering various viewpoints. Some argue that Megan was justified in sharing her experience, while others, like Smith, feel a greater degree of privacy is warranted in such matters.

    Smith’s commentary adds another layer to the ongoing public discourse, highlighting the different perspectives on how celebrity relationships and breakups should be handled in the age of social media. It’s a reminder that even outside the sports arena, Stephen A. Smith isn’t afraid to voice his strong opinions.

    What are your thoughts on Stephen A. Smith’s comments about Megan Thee Stallion and Klay Thompson’s breakup? Do you agree that private matters should stay private? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Stephen A. Smith & Garcelle Beauvais Spark Romance Rumors

    Hold onto your hats, folks! It looks like there might be a new power couple brewing in Hollywood. ESPN’s outspoken sports analyst Stephen A. Smith and ‘The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ star Garcelle Beauvais were spotted getting quite cozy at the premiere of the new Michael Jackson biopic, ‘Michael,’ on April 20, 2026.

    A Family Affair Turns Flirty

    Both stars brought their children as their dates to the Dolby Theatre, making it a family outing. However, while the kids were reportedly hitting it off, the parents were apparently creating some sparks of their own. Eyewitnesses described the interaction between Smith and Beauvais as “comfy cozy” and noted that Smith was “clearly flirting.”

    According to insiders, Garcelle was reciprocating the energy, blushing throughout their conversation. One source whispered to Media Take Out, “It was the kind of chemistry you usually only see in a rom-com!” It seems the usual loud takes from Stephen A. on ‘First Take’ were replaced with smooth red-carpet charm.

    The Gentlemanly Gesture

    The interaction reportedly culminated in a classic gentlemanly move. Witnesses saw Stephen A. Smith take Garcelle Beauvais’s hand and give it a kiss right there on the black carpet. Following this sweet gesture, they exchanged phone numbers before heading into the screening, leaving onlookers buzzing.

    Garcelle was reportedly “beaming” and visibly blushing as they parted ways. Insiders suggest Smith has been searching for a “Queen” to match his energy, and Beauvais, who is thriving in her post-RHOBH career, might just be the perfect fit.

    A Match Made in Hollywood?

    On paper, this pairing makes a lot of sense. Both are power players in their respective fields – Stephen A. in sports media and Garcelle in entertainment and reality TV. They both possess a strong “alpha” energy, and seeing their children connect so well is often seen as a major “green flag” for any budding relationship.

    While the ‘Michael’ premiere provided a star-studded backdrop for this potential romance to blossom, only time will tell if this red-carpet flirtation will turn into a lasting relationship. Are you here for “Ste-Celle”?

    What are your thoughts on the potential romance between Stephen A. Smith and Garcelle Beauvais? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Cam’ron: How a CNN Interview Cost Him ESPN Deal

    It turns out that even a promise from Stephen A. Smith isn’t always enough to secure a spot on ESPN. Rapper Cam’ron recently shared how a controversial interview derailed a potentially lucrative deal with the sports giant. His popular sports show, ‘It Is What It Is,’ co-hosted with Ma$e, has gained a significant following for its authentic and unfiltered take on sports.

    The ESPN Offer That Never Was

    Cam’ron revealed that a couple of years ago, he had direct conversations with Stephen A. Smith about joining ESPN. Smith had apparently promised the legendary rapper a dedicated time slot, specifically on Fridays. This would have been a massive opportunity, offering significant exposure and financial rewards.

    However, the deal ultimately fell through at the last minute. The reason? A now infamous CNN interview that Cam’ron participated in. The interview, which was meant to discuss Diddy, took a turn and led to Cam’ron being effectively blacklisted from CNN.

    The Fallout from the CNN Interview

    According to Cam’ron, the higher-ups at ESPN saw the CNN interview and deemed him an unsuitable fit for their network. Stephen A. Smith conveyed this decision to Cam, explaining that the network was no longer interested in pursuing the deal. This effectively shut the door on what could have been a major career move.

    While losing out on such a significant opportunity might seem like a big blow, Cam’ron suggested it might have been for the best. His signature off-the-cuff style and willingness to speak his mind could clash with the more controlled environment of a major network like ESPN.

    The Power of Independence

    Remaining independent allows Cam’ron and Ma$e to maintain full creative control over ‘It Is What It Is.’ They don’t have network executives breathing down their necks, dictating what they can or cannot say. This freedom fosters the authenticity that fans have come to love.

    Ultimately, ‘It Is What It Is’ continues to thrive as a powerhouse platform. The show’s success demonstrates that there’s a strong appetite for genuine sports commentary, even if it comes from outside the traditional media landscape. Cam’ron’s ability to build and own his platform without network constraints is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit.

    Do you think Cam’ron made the right choice by staying independent? Share your thoughts on the ‘It Is What It Is’ show in the comments!

  • Stephen A. Smith Slams Jaden Ivey After Bulls Release

    Oof, this sounds like a tough situation for Jaden Ivey. Renowned sports commentator Stephen A. Smith believes the young guard may have seriously jeopardized his NBA career following a lengthy Instagram Live rant that included anti-LGBTQ+ comments. The Chicago Bulls recently waived Ivey, citing “conduct detrimental to the team.”

    Stephen A. Smith’s Take on the Rant

    Speaking on his show, Smith questioned the wisdom of Ivey’s extended public commentary. “The first order of business is minding your own,” Smith advised. “The second order of business is protecting your own and not doing stuff that’s going to get in your own way, just because you wanted to express yourself on IG.”

    Smith continued, “You got a future to think about, and you just put it in jeopardy because you wanted to express yourself for 42 minutes on IG live. Where’s that going to get you? Is that worth your career?” The veteran analyst clearly feels Ivey’s actions were a significant misstep.

    Ivey’s Controversial Statements

    During his livestream, Ivey specifically criticized the NBA’s support for Pride Month, stating, “The world proclaims LGBTQ, right? They proclaim Pride Month and the NBA does too. They say, ‘Come join us for Pride Month to celebrate unrighteousness.’” These comments have drawn significant backlash.

    Following his release, Ivey attempted to defend himself in another livestream, pointing out he hadn’t even been with the team due to rehabilitation. He also questioned the NBA’s perceived hypocrisy, contrasting his release with Anthony Edwards’ situation in 2023, where a similar slur resulted only in a fine, suggesting player status played a role.

    Religious Commentary and NBA Stars

    Adding another layer to his controversial remarks, Ivey also touched upon his Christian faith. He suggested that several prominent NBA stars, including Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Michael Jordan, might not be as devout as perceived. “All them rings he got, all them rings LeBron got, all them rings Michael Jordan got, all them people in the Hall of Fame who don’t know Jesus Christ,” Ivey stated. “It’s not gonna matter.”

    What’s your take on Jaden Ivey’s comments and the Bulls’ decision? Do you think his NBA career is in jeopardy? Share your thoughts below!

  • Stephen A. Smith Fires Back at Jason Whitlock

    The long-standing feud between sports commentators Stephen A. Smith and Jason Whitlock has reached a new, dramatic level. After Whitlock appeared on Cam Newton’s show and leveled accusations against Smith, Stephen A. decided it was time to clap back – and he did it in true Stephen A. fashion.

    A History of Animosity

    It’s no secret that these two media personalities don’t see eye-to-eye. Whitlock has often labeled Smith a fraud, while Smith frequently refers to Whitlock with colorful insults, including the term “fat bastard,” and questions his career achievements. Their mutual dislike is well-documented and a recurring theme in sports media discussions.

    The latest spark came when former NFL star Cam Newton, who now works with Smith on ESPN’s “First Take,” invited Whitlock onto his show, “4th & Goal.” During the appearance, Whitlock didn’t hold back, calling Smith a liar and accusing him of exaggerating his career success. These strong words were bound to provoke a reaction from Smith.

    Smith’s Epic Response: “Fat Bastard Lock”

    True to form, Stephen A. Smith addressed Whitlock’s comments head-on during his own show, “Straight Shooter.” But instead of just a verbal response, Smith took things to another level. He announced he was creating a GoFundMe page for Whitlock, humorously naming it “Fat Bastard Lock.”

    As the segment progressed, Smith dramatically began throwing $100 bills onto the floor. His reasoning? He believes Whitlock only mentions him to gain views and, consequently, money. By symbolically providing the funds Whitlock allegedly seeks, Smith seemed to be making a point about Whitlock’s motivations and perhaps hoping to end the constant need for attention.

    An Embarrassing Spectacle?

    While Smith’s approach is certainly attention-grabbing, it’s likely to be seen as an embarrassing tactic by Whitlock. The spectacle of Smith throwing money and creating a mock GoFundMe is a bold, if unconventional, way to handle a public feud. It certainly adds fuel to the fire, suggesting this rivalry is far from over.

    For viewers, this ongoing drama between Smith and Whitlock provides plenty of entertainment. It highlights the often-heated nature of sports commentary and the lengths personalities will go to defend their reputations and assert dominance in the media landscape.

    What do you think of Stephen A. Smith’s response to Jason Whitlock? Is it a brilliant tactic or just more drama? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!