Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith Reunite for Exciting ‘First Take’ Comeback!

After a lengthy month-long break from the show, Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith are making their return to the debate program, although Shannon Sharpe was conspicuously missing. The last appearance of Qerim and Smith on First Take occurred late last month, taking time off following the conclusion of the 2024-25 NBA season. On Monday, viewers were treated to an unexpected return, with Smith joining remotely while Qerim was at the new Hudson Square studios. Recent reports indicated their comeback just in time for the commencement of the 2025-26 NFL season. As training camps for all teams kick off this week, fans took to social media to express their enthusiasm for the duo's return to the morning program. Qerim was joined by esteemed analyst and former NFL player Ryan Clark, along with figures like Andrew Hawkins and Mike Tannenbaum. However, NFL star Sharpe remained absent amid ongoing legal issues stemming from sexual assault allegations made by an individual identified as Jane Doe.