SPORTS analyst Stephen A. Smith is at the center of a new ESPN documentary.
O ESPN Sportscaster, 56, plays a leading role in Up For Debate: The Evolution of Sports Media.
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Smith has worked for more than two decades with sports network giants and is one of the most recognized analysts in the country.
He trains with various guests on all sports every weekday on First Take.
The new three-part series will “explore the past, present and future of sports debate,” according to an ESPN Press release.
“We are diving deep into the heart of the game, breaking down barriers and showing the evolution of sports discourse,” explained Smith, executive producer of the project.
“From the legends who paved the way to today’s Kings and Queens of the microphone, we’re bringing you a front-row seat to the passion and intensity that fuels the debates in today’s generation of sports.
“Then buckle up! Here we go.”
Episode 1 of the season finds Stephen A. “dissecting the current sports media landscape.”
The series will trace the journey from the first on-camera personalities to the current rivalry between the network’s shows.
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“We are thrilled to partner with Stephen A. Smith, a pioneer and undisputed legend in the world of sports talk, on this entertaining and riveting series,” said Gotham Chopra of Religion of Sports, who co-produced the show.
“Highlighting the evolution of sports media and a wide range of beloved personalities, we know passionate sports, media and debate fans will love it.”
In addition to Smith, a number of ESPN stars will be present in the production.
First Take host Molly Qerim, Smith’s co-analyst Shannon Sharpe and NFL broadcaster Troy Aikman are set to appear.
“This is going to be fascinating,” wrote one ESPN fan on X in response to the show trailer.
“Definitely watching this,” said another.
“When you say debate, do you mean Stephen A just shouting at everyone?” laughed a third.
Stephen A. Smith’s journey through the media
STEPHEN A. Smith is now the face of ESPN and executive producer of First Take, having initially started working for the company in 2003.
Smith has held numerous roles at the network, including radio show host, contributions to SportsCenter and appearance on NBA Countdown.
He was a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer from 1994 to 2010.
He started as an NBA writer before becoming a general sports columnist.
Prior to that, Smith worked as a reporter at the Winston-Salem Journal, the Greensboro News and the New York Daily News.
First Take has had a stellar year and continues to beat FS1 rival Undisputed in the ratings.
“First Take is definitely that, it comes at a time when linear television is declining, shows are being canceled,” Smith recently told The Deal with Alex Rodriguez and Jason Kelly, via Horrible ad.
“We are climbing the rankings.
“I’m proud to say that I wake up every day with two thoughts in mind. How do I make more money for my bosses and how do I get some of it?”
Up for debate: The Evolution of Sports Media is now available to stream on ESPN+.
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