What opportunities are out there for a 72-year-old hot-take artist?
The future is uncertain. ESPN has already ruled out a First Take reunion between Bayless and Smith, stating, “We are set with the current First Take rotation and wish Skip the best in his future endeavors.”
Bayless could try to follow the example of Smith, McAfee, and Sharpe by building his own media platform. However, his YouTube show has only 160,000 subscribers compared to Smith’s 755,000, McAfee’s 2.6 million, and Sharpe’s 3.2 million.
Alternatively, Bayless could land at betting platforms like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars Sportsbook, which have been scooping up mainstream sports media talent such as Kay Adams, Mike Golic Sr., and Trey Wingo.
“This is a tough spot for Skip. His run is over,” says another industry source.
Bayless’s outspoken and often controversial opinions turned him into a household name in sports media. He became a polarizing figure, drawing both ardent supporters and vehement critics.
Despite the current uncertainty about his career, his influence on the sports commentary landscape is undeniable.
Whether he finds a new platform or decides to retire, Skip Bayless’s legacy in sports television will be remembered for its impact and the many conversations it sparked.
