Molly Qerim Steps Away From ESPN's First Take, Here's The Reason Behind Her Exit After 10 Years

Veteran host Molly Qerim has decided to step away from ESPN's First Take, leaving the channel to find a new host. The news came as a shock, and the reason behind Molly's exit has not been officially disclosed, although some speculation has been circulating. It was first revealed by a source to the Sports Business Journal that Molly would leave ESPN and First Take altogether by the end of 2025. Amid the buzz doing rounds, Molly herself took to her social media handle and announced her decision to step away from her role as the host of First Take.

Molly Qerim announces her decision to step away from ESPN's First Take

On Monday, i.e. on September 15, 2025, Molly Qerim took to her social media handle and announced that she would step away from her position as the host of ESPN's First Take. Molly has been the host of First Take for the last 10 years. On her Instagram story, Molly revealed that, after careful consideration, she has decided to step away from her role as the host of First Take.

On her note, Molly further mentioned that it had been the greatest honour of her career to work as a host on ESPN's First Take, and it had been a privilege for her to share the desk every morning with some of the brilliant and most passionate entertaining voices in sports. She further thanked everyone for making her journey beautiful, mentioning that it had given her lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories, making it even more special for her. Molly's note could be read as:

"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 honors 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 is the reason for Molly Qerim's exit from ESPN's First Take?

The exact reason for Molly Qerim's exit from ESPN's First Take hasn't been officially disclosed yet. Sources told the SBJ that she was given a new contract by ESPN, but she decided to move on. While this is mere speculation, along with the announcement of leaving the show, Molly also dropped a hint, saying 'stay tuned', suggesting that she surely has something exciting in her career that she will eventually announce to her well-wishers and followers. While Molly has not yet revealed details about her last episode, reports by SBJ claimed that it will be around the end of 2025.

Molly Qerim joined ESPN in 2006, where she worked on digital and movie content, as well as conducted interviews and provided updates. It was in 2008 that Molly joined the ESPN news team. After Cari Champion left being the host of First Take in 2015, Molly first started appearing as the interim host of the show. By September 2015, she was announced as the permanent moderator of First Take.

What do you think about Molly Qerim's shocking exit from ESPN's First Take, after more than a decade?

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