Molly Qerim Quits ESPN's 'First Take' After 10 Years, What Was Her Salary From The Sports Talk Show?

After more than 10 years, veteran host, Molly Qerim stepped away from her position on ESPN's First Take. For the uninitiated, Molly had been the permanent host of First Take since 2015, and her shocking exit left people wondering what might be the reason behind it. The exact reason for Molly's exit has not been disclosed yet, and Molly herself has announced that she is stepping away from her position. Amidst this, let's take a look at the massive paycheck Molly used to receive as the permanent host of ESPN's First Take.

What was Molly Qerim's salary from ESPN's First Take? A look at her massive net worth

Taking to her IG handle, Molly Qerim dropped an emotional note to announce her exit from ESPN's First Take. For the uninitiated, she joined ESPN in 2006, and at that time, she was working on digital and mobile content. In 2008, Molly reportedly joined ESPN's news team. Following this, she reportedly left ESPN after four years of joining and started working on CBS Sports Network and NFL Network. Molly reportedly always knew she wanted to return to the channel and did so in 2015, becoming the interim host of First Take  after Cari Champion left the show.

By September 2015, Molly was announced as the permanent host of First Take. While not officially disclosed, it was revealed by Marca that Molly's yearly pay on ESPN as of 2025 had been 500,000 to 600,000 US dollars. Some other reports claimed that Molly's yearly salary could even reach USD 1.5 million after new deal agreements.

Apart from her salary, she received other benefits, including health, travel, and wardrobe packages, as well as various incentives. Reportedly, she has a net worth of USD 2 million, and while much of it was caused due to her role as a host on First Take, she also reportedly has a deal with famous brands like Nike and Adidas, plus appearances on events, ESPN shows and also for hosting special events, among others, reportedly contribute to her massive net worth.

More about Molly Qerim's professional and personal life

Molly Qerim was reportedly born and raised in Cheshire, Connecticut, to a Catholic mother and a Muslim father, given her Albanian ties from her father's side and Italian heritage on her mother’s side. She earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut, majoring in communications and minoring in business administration.

Following this, Molly earned her master's degree in broadcast journalism from Quinnipiac University. In 2006, Molly began her career with ESPN, and eventually, in 2015, she became the permanent host on the show, First Take. Apart from being a famous host, Molly is also a philanthropist, and she has raised awareness about endometriosis, a condition from which she herself has suffered. Talking about her personal life, she was married to NBA star and ESPN talker Jalen Rose. She led a very low-key personal life, and it was in 2021 that the couple reportedly separated.

Molly Qerim's exit from ESPN's First Take has been a shocking one. According to a source, as reported by the Sports Business Journal, the channel offered her a new contract, which she declined and opted to move on from. On her IG handle, Molly announced her decision about the same, hinting at a new step forward by asking her followers to 'stay tuned'. She said:

"After much reflection, I’ve decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take. Hosting this show has been one of the greatest honours of my career. Every morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with some of the most brilliant, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports — and with all of you, the best fans in the world. I’m so grateful for what this journey has given me: lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and the chance to be part of something truly special. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for welcoming me into your homes."

What do you think about Molly Qerim's massive salary package from ESPN?

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