The information of Molly Qerim's ESPN exit didn't come out in the way in which she had hoped it will.
In a observe posted to her Instagram Story, the “First Take” host mentioned Tuesday morning that information “got here out sooner than I supposed” — hours after Sports Business Journal reported that she turned down ESPN's provide for a brand new contract and can depart the worldwide chief on the finish of the yr.
“Molly has been an integral a part of ESPN since 2006 and a key driver of ‘First Take's' success since becoming a member of as host a decade in the past,” Burke Magnus, president of content material at ESPN, said Tuesday, shortly after Qerim's assertion. “She elevated the present together with her poise, ability and professionalism, whereas supporting others as a sort and inspiring teammate.
“We respect Molly's determination, want her the most effective sooner or later and thank her for her extraordinary day by day dedication to sports activities followers and ESPN.”
ESPN and Qerim didn't say when her official final “First Take” present shall be.
“After a lot reflection, I've determined it's time to shut this unimaginable chapter and step away from First Take,” Qerim wrote. “Internet hosting this present has been one of many best honors of my profession. Each morning, I had the privilege of sharing the desk with a number of the most sensible, passionate, and entertaining voices in sports activities — and with all of you, the most effective followers on the earth.”
It's unclear what's subsequent for Qerim, who added, “Keep tuned” with a smiley face.
The Emmy Award-winning Qerim started internet hosting “First Take” in 2015, when she returned to ESPN following stints at CBS Sports activities and NFL Community.
Qerim first joined ESPN in 2006, the place she spent 4 years contributing to digital and cellular platforms, incomes an Emmy in 2008 for her work on “Fantasy Soccer Now.”
She coated faculty soccer and basketball, amongst different main occasions, whereas at CBS Sports activities in New York — and hosted “NFL AM” and “NFL Fantasy Reside” whereas at NFL Community in Los Angeles.
A local of Connecticut, Qerim graduated from the College of Connecticut.
