Total Pro Sports
Molly Qerim knows how to hold her ground, and she proved it once again on First Take. While fans are used to seeing her navigate raging debates and big personalities, one recent moment caught even the crew off guard, especially the cameraman, who couldn’t hide his surprise on live TV.
The longtime First Take host returned to the set Monday morning after a brief absence last week. Viewers missed her presence and wasted no time expressing that on social media. But Qerim made sure her comeback was memorable, delivering a sharp one-liner during a fashion debate with co-host Stephen A. Smith that sent shockwaves through the studio.
While Stephen A. boasted about his style, a routine fans know all too well, Qerim quickly shut it down.
“When it comes to fashion, nobody’s better than Molly,” Smith admitted during the exchange.
That’s when Qerim fired back without hesitation: “Stephen A., like EF Hutton, when I speak, you listen.”
The moment landed so unexpectedly that the show’s cameraman visibly reacted, a rare slip on live television that fans picked up on almost instantly.
Who needs Game 3 of Thunder-Nuggets more: Jokic or SGA? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/m34bBPMv9r
— First Take (@FirstTake) May 9, 2025
Qerim’s quick wit and command of the set aren’t new. She’s known for challenging Smith, a role few others manage with the same ease and poise. Her ability to hold her own against ESPN’s most dominant voice has become part of what makes First Take tick, and fans don’t take it for granted.
Social media lit up during her time away. “Can you replace Molly Qerim already?????????????” one fan posted on X.
WHERE IS MOLLY QERIM
— Wood . Forever 💎 (@ArtistRyanWood) May 6, 2025
Another wrote, “No Molly Qerim Worst Week Ever.”
No Molly Qerim Worst Week Ever https://t.co/BCwx2VmGVK pic.twitter.com/6LypIO5v5p
— milton vadell butler (@mvdbutler) May 9, 2025
One noting, “I’m Done This Week With First Take Screw You Stephen A Smith You Ruined My Week Without Molly Qerim.”
I'm Done This Week With First Take Screw You Stephen A Smith You Ruined My Week Without Molly Qerim https://t.co/RRWgjpWxsh
— milton vadell butler (@mvdbutler) May 6, 2025
Her absence was clearly felt, but her return reminded everyone why she’s become such a staple of the show. Whether she’s steering heated debates or trading jabs with Stephen A., Qerim balances the chaos.
She may have one of the most challenging jobs at ESPN, but it’s also one she’s made her own, and moments like this are exactly why viewers keep watching.
Also Read: The Entire Internet Is Concerned Following Molly Qerim’s Mysterious Absence
