Stephen A. Smith Reflects on His Deep Friendship with Molly Qerim

Stephen A. Smith has never been one to shy away from expressing his emotions, and his recent appearance on Cam Newton‘s show, Funky Friday, was no exception. The veteran sports commentator took a moment to reflect on his professional and personal history with former First Take host Molly Qerim, making it clear that his respect and affection for her remain as strong as ever.

While Shae Cornette has stepped into the role of moderator on the popular ESPN program—a transition Smith describes as seamless and impressive—he emphasized that his connection to Qerim transcends the workplace. “She and I are friends,” Smith explained during the interview. “I miss her, I got a lot of love for her, and she’s very near and dear to me.”

The duo shared the screen for over 11 years, building a rapport that went beyond the typical host-analyst dynamic. Smith noted that their bond was forged through years of mutual trust and shared experiences. “Over the last few years, she’s confided in me a lot. Trusted me with a lot of things and our friendship only grew,” he added. While his demanding schedule makes frequent check-ins difficult, Smith remains steadfast in his support, noting that their friendship is not something he intends to let fade.

The conversation also addressed the inevitable speculation that has followed their partnership for years. Despite persistent rumors regarding their personal lives, Smith has consistently maintained that their relationship was strictly professional and platonic. He also took the opportunity to address the circumstances of Qerim’s departure from ESPN, clarifying that her exit was a personal decision following a contract dispute, rather than a firing or a forced departure.

Stephen A. Smith misses his close friend and former First Take host, Molly Qerim, dearly. The sports commentator expressed his profound feelings on Cam Newton’s show Funky Friday.

Smith concluded his thoughts by wishing Qerim the best in her future endeavors and health, acknowledging her ongoing battle with endometriosis. Despite the noise from social media critics who have questioned the depth of their friendship, Smith remains focused on the genuine history they share, standing by his long-time partner as she navigates her next chapter.