Introduction
Few voices in modern sports media are as loud—or as influential—as Stephen A. Smith. Known for his fiery takes, rapid-fire delivery, and endless energy, Smith is not just a sports analyst—he’s a media institution. At the heart of his meteoric rise is one simple truth: Stephen A. is paid like a superstar, and for good reason.
Over the years, Smith has become the highest-paid on-air personality at ESPN, and his contract is a subject of major public interest and industry analysis. In this article, we break down his current contract, salary, power within ESPN, and what his deal means for the future of sports broadcasting.
Stephen A. Smith: The Face of ESPN
Since joining ESPN full-time in the early 2000s, Stephen A. Smith has grown into the most recognizable face on the network. His role as co-host of First Take, alongside appearances on NBA Countdown, SportsCenter, and his podcast The Stephen A. Smith Show, has made him a central figure in American sports culture.
Whether you love him or hate him, there’s no denying Stephen A. brings ratings, attention, and endless debate. ESPN executives know this, which is why they’re willing to pay a premium to keep him in-house.
The 2019 Contract: Record-Breaking Salary
In 2019, Stephen A. Smith signed a new multi-year extension with ESPN that made headlines across the media industry. According to reports from The New York Post, the deal was worth $8 million per year, making him the highest-paid on-air talent at the network.
At the time, Smith’s contract surpassed that of Mike Greenberg ($6.5 million/year) and Scott Van Pelt ($4 million/year). The deal reflected both his on-air talent and his off-screen influence in shaping ESPN’s content and direction.
Under the terms of the contract, Smith was locked in as a major personality for television, radio, and digital platforms, including:
- Daily co-host of First Take
- Appearances on NBA Countdown
- Hosting special events and major sports coverage
- Opportunities to develop original content
Expanded Influence and Creative Control
Stephen A. didn’t just get paid—he got power. Part of what sets his deal apart is the creative control and editorial influence he now wields. On First Take, for example, he reportedly has veto power over who sits across from him as co-host or debate partner.
In recent years, we’ve seen Smith rotate through co-hosts like Max Kellerman, Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, and various guest analysts. These changes often come at Smith’s request or with his approval, showing just how much say he has in shaping the show.
He also launched The Stephen A. Smith Show, a hybrid podcast and radio program distributed through ESPN’s digital network, giving him additional exposure and autonomy in his content creation.
First Take: A Ratings Machine
First Take, ESPN’s flagship morning debate show, has long been a staple of weekday sports programming—but it went to the next level when Stephen A. became the face of the show.
After Skip Bayless left for Fox Sports in 2016, many questioned whether First Take could survive. Not only did it survive—it thrived under Smith’s leadership. In 2023, First Take’s ratings increased by over 20%, making it the most-watched studio show on ESPN.
This kind of sustained success has made Smith indispensable to ESPN’s business model. The network leans on him to drive daytime viewership, generate viral clips, and serve as a public face in press and social media.
Media Empire: Podcasting, YouTube, and Beyond
Beyond ESPN, Stephen A. Smith has grown his own personal media brand. In 2022, he launched “The Stephen A. Smith Show” as an independent podcast, produced in partnership with Audacy and Majority Audio. The show appears on YouTube and audio platforms, covering everything from sports to politics and pop culture.
Smith has also made appearances on shows like The View, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and even participated in acting, appearing in the soap opera General Hospital and the movie Brick City. All of this adds to his multi-platform value, something ESPN considers when calculating his overall worth.
Contract Extension Talks: What’s Next?
In early 2024, reports began circulating that Stephen A. Smith is in talks for another contract extension with ESPN. According to multiple sources, Smith is seeking a new deal worth $12 million to $15 million per year, which would again make him the highest-paid personality in sports broadcasting.
While ESPN has undergone massive layoffs and budget tightening, most industry insiders believe the network will retain Smith at any cost, as he is considered “too valuable to lose.” In fact, Smith has hinted at these negotiations on his podcast, stating:
“I know my worth, and I’m not scared to say it.”
If a new deal is signed, it could set a new benchmark for on-air talent compensation, especially in an era when traditional media companies are cutting back.
How His Salary Compares to Other ESPN Talent
As of 2024, Stephen A. Smith is already the top earner at ESPN. Here’s how his salary stacks up:
- Stephen A. Smith – $8M (current), seeking up to $15M
- Mike Greenberg – $6.5M
- Scott Van Pelt – $4M
- Rece Davis – $1.5M
- Mina Kimes – Contract reportedly under $2M
Smith has become the face of ESPN, and his compensation reflects that. He also generates more viewership and digital engagement than nearly any other ESPN host.
Criticism and Controversies
Of course, such visibility comes with criticism. Some believe Smith is overpaid, arguing that his delivery style is too theatrical or that his hot takes are designed more for entertainment than analysis.
He’s also faced backlash for various on-air comments, particularly around race, gender, and politics. However, his ability to weather controversy and maintain ratings has only solidified his value in ESPN’s eyes.
ESPN insiders often describe Smith as “bulletproof” due to his massive audience reach, dedicated fanbase, and media versatility.
Cultural Impact and Industry Influence
Stephen A. Smith isn’t just an ESPN employee—he’s a trailblazer. As a Black media figure at the top of the sports broadcasting food chain, he’s opened doors for others and frequently speaks about representation in media.
He’s also inspired a wave of sports commentators and content creators who mirror his energy, passion, and unfiltered delivery. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and podcasting are filled with creators adopting a similar formula.
In many ways, Stephen A. helped redefine the genre—from traditional sports desk commentary to personality-driven analysis that entertains while informing.
Conclusion
Stephen A. Smith’s ESPN contract is more than just a big payday—it’s a reflection of his dominance in the sports media world. With a salary exceeding $8 million (and potentially climbing to $15 million), unmatched visibility, and control over his content, Smith represents the future of modern broadcasting.
As ESPN adapts to digital trends and audience demands, Stephen A. Smith will likely remain front and center—debating, hosting, and leading the next generation of sports commentary.
Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore him. And in media, that makes him worth every dollar.