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ESPN Personalities Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim Refute Dating Rumors Following Podcast Claims
Rumors regarding a potential romantic relationship between ESPN personalities Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim have resurfaced following controversial comments made by comedian Corey Holcomb on his YouTube podcast.
The speculation dates back to late 2025 when Qerim unexpectedly resigned from ESPN’s popular debate show “First Take,” which she co-hosted with Smith for several years. While Qerim’s departure was officially attributed to contract disagreements, industry insiders noted that Smith, despite securing a lucrative contract renewal, reportedly felt undervalued at the network.
Holcomb reignited the dating rumors on his “CoreyHolcomb5150Land” podcast, making explicit claims about a supposed relationship between the two ESPN colleagues. Using crude language, Holcomb suggested that Smith and Qerim must have been romantically involved, questioning why Smith would otherwise tolerate working alongside her.
The comedian didn’t stop at relationship speculation, continuing with a broader critique of Smith’s professional persona, calling him a “cornball sellout” and unfavorably comparing him to the late Stuart Scott, a beloved ESPN anchor who passed away in 2015.
Holcomb also made references to Qerim’s previous marriage to former NBA player and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose. The couple was married from 2018 to 2021 before separating amicably, stating they would remain friends and professional colleagues.
However, both Smith and Qerim have consistently denied any romantic involvement. As recently as April 2024, the pair addressed the situation directly on air after fellow ESPN personality Chris Russo jokingly remarked that they looked like a married couple when both appeared wearing white outfits during a broadcast.
Smith took the opportunity to clearly state that “there’s nothing going on” between them, acknowledging that such rumors had circulated for years. He defused the situation with humor, saying, “Here’s the upside to all of that: they know my taste. So, therefore, they know that’s a compliment to her. And, obviously, she has great taste as well, so I guess that’s America’s way of saying we both really really look good.”
Qerim has similarly dismissed the speculation as “ridiculous” and unfounded, reportedly finding humor in the public’s fascination with their professional relationship.
The persistent rumors highlight the challenges faced by male and female broadcasters who work closely together in the sports media industry. Despite their repeated denials, speculation about Smith and Qerim continues to resurface periodically, often fueled by social media and commentary from outside the sports journalism world.
ESPN has not officially commented on Holcomb’s recent claims, consistent with the network’s general approach of allowing its on-air personalities to address personal matters as they see fit.
The situation underscores the intense public scrutiny faced by high-profile sports media personalities, particularly when they have strong on-screen chemistry that can be misinterpreted by viewers. Smith and Qerim’s professional relationship helped make “First Take” one of ESPN’s flagship programs, with their debates on sports topics consistently drawing strong viewership numbers.
Industry observers note that such rumors can distract from the substantive sports analysis that forms the core of ESPN’s programming, shifting focus to personal matters rather than professional content.
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7 Comments
The claims made by Holcomb seem more like sensationalism than journalism. Unless Smith and Qerim confirm or deny the relationship, I don’t think we can take these rumors at face value. Let’s focus on their professional work instead.
I’m curious to hear Smith and Qerim’s side of the story. Unsubstantiated claims, even from public figures, shouldn’t be treated as facts. Let’s wait for them to address the rumors directly before drawing any conclusions.
Interesting claims, though I’d take them with a grain of salt without clear evidence. Relationships between co-workers can be complex and personal. I hope both Smith and Qerim are able to address the rumors professionally.
While the relationship speculation is juicy, we should be careful about spreading unverified rumors, especially those involving crude language. I’d prefer to focus on the individuals’ work and achievements rather than their personal lives.
Agreed. Their personal lives should remain private unless they choose to discuss them publicly. The focus should be on their professional contributions.
While the alleged relationship between Smith and Qerim is an attention-grabbing story, I think we should be cautious about spreading gossip without clear evidence. Their personal lives are their own, and we should respect their privacy.
The dating rumors seem more like tabloid fodder than serious journalism. Unless Smith and Qerim confirm anything, I don’t think we should lend much credence to the claims, no matter how provocative they may be.