SiriusXM has parted ways with hosts Michelle Beadle and Cody Decker following the streaming platform’s announcement that Stephen A. Smith is returning to host two shows beginning in September. The Stephen A. Smith Show is set to begin airing on Mad Dog Radio in September, in conjunction with the beginning of the NFL regular season. As a result, the future of Beadle & Decker was left in limbo.
Subsequently, SiriusXM found its resolution after two days of backlash from Beadle and Decker and ultimately released both talents.
“We’d like to thank the callers who made the last couple of days an absolute blast,” tweeted Beadle. “Truly, you don’t usually get such love on your way out. Security usually walks ya to the door. You guys rule. Six hours of how you felt. And you all were heard!”
The release, first reported by The Athletic, came just two days after Beadle and Decker reacted in real time on their show to the news of Smith’s return to the station—news that also included him taking over their time slot. Additionally, Stephen A. Smith stated he had no knowledge that SiriusXM had not informed the duo of the plans for his arrival. Chris “Mad Dog” Russo echoed that sentiment, criticizing his own employer for failing to notify them.
“Well s**t, that was my favorite show,” tweeted Decker following the news of his dismissal becoming public Thursday night.
Michelle Beadle and Cody Decker, who had been hosting a midday show on the channel since August 2023, were reportedly told not to discuss the situation. Nevertheless, they broached the topic on the latest editions of their radio program over the last two days. Beadle, a seasoned broadcaster with more than two decades in the industry, expressed profound disappointment regarding how everything unfolded.
“All I ask is to be treated with respect,” Beadle said. “Well, how many times do I say, ‘I give what I get, I get what I give,’ and so here we are. We’re going to do our shows because we’re contractually obligated to be here.”
Later that evening, she spoke with Front Office Sports about how the announcement was handled and reiterated her personal distaste for Stephen A. Smith, which, she explained, stems from their time working together at ESPN.
To date, SiriusXM has not provided additional comment following the dismissal of Beadle and Decker.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
