Shannon Sharpe’s entry into ESPN’s First Take brought both surprise and high expectations. After more than six years on the show, he was released during a period of significant changes. However, thanks to the unwavering support of Stephen A. Smith as the new teammate, Shannon Sharpe is smoothly transitioning to his new role in the broadcasting landscape. On the flip side, Skip Bayless, Sharpe’s former partner, has embarked on collaborations with several NFL personalities.

Following Sharpe’s departure from the show, network executives have enlisted Michael Irvin, Keyshawn Johnson, and Richard Sherman to step in. As the two prominent networks unveil their fresh lineups, their rivalry continues to intensify. While Undisputed settles in with its new cast, Stephen A. Smith and Sharpe are relishing their positions in the limelight.

Stephen A. and Shannon Sharpe leave Undisputed behind

A recent report displays that Stephen A. Smith and Shannon Sharpe have surged past Bayless’ Undisputed. As of this Tuesday, First Take reports an impressive viewership of 717,000. Conversely, star-studded Undisputed on Fox Sports1 has garnered just 118,000 viewers. Furthermore, the substantial 599,000 viewership gap is attributed to Shannon Sharpe’s presence.

The duo’s chemistry is the key factor in First Take’s triumph over the FS1 show. A hilarious instance that has occurred multiple times between Stephen A. and Sharpe radiates their camaraderie. Sharpe was seen mistakenly referring to Smith as ‘Skip’ on multiple occasions. However, Stephen A. Smith has consistently stood by Sharpe. Moving past the silly mistake, the duo finds humor in the instance and lit the atmosphere with laughter.

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Stephen evidently likes working with Shannon, unlike Max Kellerman

Despite fans strongly supporting First Take, largely due to Shannon’s departure, ESPN itself has made some questionable decisions. One instance from 2021 has been the subject of fan curiosity. It involves Stephen A. Smith presenting ESPN with an ultimatum: it was either he or Max Kellerman who would stay on First Take. Clearly, ESPN chose to keep Smith. During a recent appearance on the Joe Budden Podcast, Stephen A. shed light on the details surrounding the well-known split. He was asked to address the viewers who observed tension between him and Max prior to his exit. Smith began by taking full responsibility for the instance, marking it as his “fault”.

“They Ain’t Giving Me Anything”: Despite Making $40 Million From ESPN, Stephen A. Smith Lashes Out at His Employer

He explained the reason being his disliking of working alongside Kellerman. Despite having huge respect for his former colleague, he believed the show had become stagnant. Smith further shared that Max’s lack of an athletic or journalistic background made it challenging for his opinions to resonate with viewers.

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