Two sports media icons are reuniting. Skip Bayless will appear on ESPN’s First Take this Friday alongside Stephen A. Smith, first reported by Front Office Sports and confirmed by ESPN.
What We Know: According to the reporting, Bayless’ appearance is billed as a one-time show. It marks the first time both men have shared ESPN airwaves since June 2016. Meanwhile, First Take has seen notable departures since Bayless last appeared on the program. Smith’s former co-hosts Max Kellerman exited in 2021, Shannon Sharpe departed in 2025, and longtime moderator Molly Qerim also departed last year.
What They Said: Skip Bayless on his chemistry with Stephen A. Smith via The Arena (February): “No one has ever quite matched the chemistry that maybe God above gave us. Can’t teach it, or coach it. It just worked, and it was entertaining, and enlightening. It was just fun.”
What Remains Unclear: Whether Friday’s appearance becomes something more is still an open question. However, Smith has a proven track record of turning guest appearances into recurring roles. However, with Bayless’ ties to several other projects of his own, could Bayles be included in the mix with weekly appearances by Cam Newton, Chris “Mad Dog” Russo among others for the upcoming football season.
What It Means: There is no doubt that Smith and Bayless on-camera chemistry is still there. However, it’s been ten years since the two joined each other on stage on ESPN. The audience has changed, as has the expectation. However, with networks truly leaning into the nostalgia of the past, this appearance by Bayless could be ESPN’s attempt at the same. It would be interesting to see if Bayless performs well, and with David Roberts stepping down in late August. Could this be Mike Foss’ first big addition to the First Take regular contributor roster if he takes the reigns for Roberts?
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
