Molly Qerim made a striking return to First Take this week, quickly capturing attention with her impeccable style. The 40-year-old ESPN anchor, known for her bold and fashionable on-air choices, donned a figure-hugging red dress during Wednesday’s episode of the popular sports debate show, turning heads as she stepped back into her familiar role.
Qerim’s return was eagerly anticipated after she missed Tuesday’s broadcast, leaving the show’s usual analyst, Stephen A. Smith, in the unfamiliar position of hosting. Her absence sparked a flurry of comments from fans who were eager for her return to restore the dynamic energy she brings to the set.
Back in the host’s chair at ESPN’s Seaport Studios in Manhattan, Molly welcomed Stephen A. Smith and Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo to the show. Before the cameras rolled, she shared a selfie with Russo, giving her 673,000 Instagram followers a glimpse of her stunning look. “Good morning!” she captioned the photo, showing off her vibrant dress as she leaned across the debate table.
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Qerim’s fans, who regularly tune in for her stylish ensembles, were quick to praise her latest outfit. One fan on social media dubbed her “The Queen of ESPN,” while another excitedly commented, “@MollyQerim damnnnnnn the fit is fitting.” Her return was met with enthusiasm, not just for her fashion but also for the energy she brings to the show.
Last week, First Take took to the road for a special Fanatics Fest episode, where Molly impressed viewers with a long white trench coat and matching tank top, further cementing her reputation as a fashion icon in the sports broadcasting world.
Meanwhile, Stephen A. Smith’s stint as host during Molly’s absence sparked mixed reactions from fans. Known for his assertive personality, Smith set strict ground rules for the show, including “no cussing” and “only speak when spoken to.” His authoritative approach led some viewers to jokingly label him a “dictator,” with many expressing their desire for Qerim to return and restore the usual balance.
“Molly, where you at? They need you, they’re all over the place today… Stephen A. is trying his best, but they’re missing you,” one viewer lamented on social media. Another added, “Molly, what’s wrong? Please tell me it was a non-serious emergency that made you take a day off. We have to deal with a dictator today.”
Behind the scenes, tensions have reportedly been brewing on First Take, with The U.S. Sun revealing that the show is in danger of becoming a “war zone” due to conflicts between cast and crew. According to an insider, Molly Qerim has played a crucial role as a peacemaker, defusing potentially explosive situations.
“Molly saved a lot of situations that were very tense and could have gotten worse,” the source shared. “If she wasn’t here, I don’t know how it would be—probably a war zone because of all those tensions and disagreements.”
Molly’s return to First Take brought not just style but also a sense of order and calm to the set, reminding fans and colleagues alike why she’s such a vital part of the show. First Take airs every weekday on ESPN at 10 a.m. ET, where Molly continues to lead the discussion with her signature blend of poise and professionalism.
