Stephen A. Smith Scores $100 Million Deal with ESPN

Stephen A. Smith is here to stay as ESPN's cornerstone, and he's bringing home a jaw-dropping paycheck while doing so. The longtime reporter and analyst inked a five-year extension with the sports network, reportedly worth a staggering $100 million, as per The Athletic.

Smith, the unmistakable voice of "First Take," will continue hosting the show as his main gig, though the new arrangement allows him to scale back on other appearances. This shift gives him more room to focus on his podcast, where he dives into topical issues ranging from sports to politics. It seems like Smith isn’t just playing ball—he’s rewriting the playbook.

However, fans of his NBA commentary might notice his absence from related programming, as The Athletic reports he’s stepping back from those duties. A bold move, but if there’s anyone who thrives on shaking things up, it’s Smith.

Smith’s ambitions might extend beyond the studio. During a recent appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," the 57-year-old hinted at a potential political run. While he initially dismissed the idea, his comment—"I approve this message"—left Fallon and the audience buzzing. Whether this is a tease or a serious consideration, it’s clear Smith knows how to keep everyone guessing.

Politically, Smith’s opinions have been as fiery as his sports takes. He’s been critical of President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party, while also showing support for Vice President Kamala Harris. Not one to mince words, he’s voiced strong criticism of both Trump and the Democrats’ messaging, proving he’s no stranger to controversy.

This new deal marks a massive pay bump for Smith, who will now earn $20 million annually—up from his previous $12 million, according to The Athletic. Talk about making moves! Beyond television, Smith’s career includes stints writing for the New York Daily News and The Philadelphia Inquirer, plus radio gigs in New York and LA.

Smith’s ability to command such a lucrative deal speaks volumes about his influence—not just in sports, but across media and culture. Whether steering debates on "First Take" or diving into deeper issues on his podcast, Smith clearly knows how to keep his audience hooked.