Molly Qerim defends First Take guest after Stephen A. Smith ‘fires shots’ over divisive on-air crew
FIRST Take host Molly Qerim had to defend Chris Canty after the former NFL star went live on ESPN in a hoodie.
The former Dallas Cowboys defensive end, 40, came under fire for his contributions from Stephen A. Smith on Tuesday’s edition of the popular sports debate show.
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Smith and his on-air sparring partner Shannon Sharpe currently broadcast the weekday show from Los Angeles.
Host Molly, who has led First Take since 2016, has remained in the show’s usual New York studio.
She was joined by Canty, who chose to wear a bright pink Nike hoodie for the occasion.
And Stephen A. wasted no time in teasing Canty for his casual dressing in his cold open dress.
Smith bellowed, “It’s a Tuesday. My husband, Shannon Sharpe, is next to me and we’re in LA.”
“While it’s raining and a little cold out east – where Molly had the attitude – we’re happy out here.
“Chris Canty, I hear you on the show today with your hoodie and all that other stuff. I expect you to bring him.”
Qerim immediately hit back at Stephen A, saying: “Shots have already been fired. First of all, I’m not moody, or whatever you say.”
“Second, Chris Canty, New York City in the fall. It’s hood weather.”
Canty agreed, “Oh sure, I don’t need Stephen A. stalling me when it comes to the hoodie.”
“I got up at 4 a.m. It’s cold outside, it’s 50 degrees. I’m sorry I’m not in a suit and boots.”
Fans were quick to comment on Canty’s threads, with one on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying: “Why is this guy wearing a pink hoodie?” It burns my eyes.”
Another laughed: “Hoody Canty is bringing you the pain today Stephen A.”
While a third said: “Why is my husband wearing a sweatshirt? You have to wear a suit. I can’t take anything you say on TV in a hoodie seriously.”
Stephen A. is known for his eye-catching on-air suits and rocked an incredible “mirror tinted” outfit last week.
While Molly urged Smith to “go back to New York” after Sharpe made a surprise revelation during Monday’s show.
First Take airs weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon on ESPN.