Sports personality Stephen A Smith is close to signing a big deal with ESPN, possibly expanding his role beyond sports. After months of talks, both sides are excited to finish the deal soon. This contract would make him the highest-paid on-air personality in ESPN’s history.
Stephen A Smith has worked with ESPN since 2003 and is known for his strong opinions on shows like “First Take” and “NBA Countdown.” His popularity has made him crucial to ESPN.
Andrew Marchand at The Athletic said Smith’s new contract could be worth $120 million over six years. This will make him the highest-paid person on-air at ESPN, earning $20 million each year. With this deal, he may also get a chance to work on Disney projects.
𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: Stephen A. Smith is closing in on a historic six-year ~$120 MILLION extension with ESPN.
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) December 4, 2024
🤯🤯🤯
(via The Athletic) pic.twitter.com/wxA6CUIsuP
Smith’s current contract lasts until 2025. He was offered $18 million a year, a 50% raise, but turned down a $90 million offer over five years because he wanted to be the highest-paid.
When asked about the $120 million deal, Smith said it was “false” and added, “I was born AT NIGHT, not last night,” explaining that he doesn’t talk about contract talks. Since the deal is so big, fans can’t stop sharing their reactions on social media.
Fans react to Stephen A Smith’s big contract news
Whether it’s $100 million for five years or $120 million for six, Stephen A Smith would earn $20 million a year if this deal finally solidifies, and this will be the highest in ESPN’s history. As expected, this deal has garnered both praise and criticism from sports fans.
@3_filmz commented, “120 million to not know ball is absurd.”
120 million to not know ball is absurd
— 3FILMZ (@3_filmz) December 4, 2024
@DCdude202 noted, “I stopped watching ESPN because of him.”
I stopped watching ESPN because of him
— The Real Telly (@DCdude202) December 4, 2024
@ogorlyog asked, “Does anyone even actually like him?”
@JimmyFingers19 wrote, “Does anyone honestly watch these sports “feigning outrage” shows???”
Does anyone honestly watch these sports “feigning outrage” shows???
— Jimmy Fingers (@JimmyFingers19) December 4, 2024
@Idesofmarch1321 penned, “That’s insane, but the man does put in work. Don’t have to agree with him to admire the hustle.”
That’s insane, but the man does put in work. Don’t have to agree with him to admire the hustle.
— Ivan Jay Jay (@Idesofmarch1321) December 4, 2024
