ESPN's Stephen A. Smith Saves NFL Star Shannon Sharpe's TV Career

When the 2023 NBA season ended, something unexpected happened. Shannon Sharpe, a legend in the NFL, left his long-time gig at FS1. He'd been working with Skip Bayless for six years, but now he was looking for a new path. Many wondered if his podcast, Club Shay Shay, would be enough. That's when Stephen A. Smith, a big name at ESPN, stepped in. Smith had seen Sharpe's struggle and remembered facing a similar situation in 2009. Back then, he didn't have anyone to help him out. Now, with power at ESPN, he could change that. He saw potential in Sharpe and knew he could help grow the show. So, Smith approached Sharpe and offered him a deal. It was a one-year contract, a chance for Sharpe to prove himself. And prove himself he did. Sharpe's dynamic with Smith on First Take brought in great ratings. By June 2024, ESPN was so happy with his performance that they signed Sharpe to a multi-year deal. Sharpe thanked Smith for his support during a tough time. However, there's a twist. Smith's own contract is up for renewal, and he wants to be the highest-paid person at ESPN, possibly reaching $20 million annually. If ESPN can't meet his demands, the man who gave Sharpe a lifeline might be the one to leave.