Here’s a detailed article about Molly Qerim’s sudden departure from First Take on ESPN, drawing on current reporting while acknowledging what remains unconfirmed.

The Ugly Truth Behind Molly Qerim’s Sudden ESPN Exit

By Ronald Kapper

September 17, 2025 — New York / Bristol, CT — Molly Qerim’s abrupt announcement that she will be leaving ESPN’s First Take has sparked speculation, shock, and a wave of questions about what really led to her exit. After serving as co-host and moderator since 2015—and with ESPN tenure stretching back to 2006—her decision to decline a renewal contract and step away from the show has layers that go beyond the official statements.

What’s Confirmed

Here’s what reliable sources agree on:

• On September 15, 2025, Qerim posted on Instagram that she had “decided it’s time to close this incredible chapter and step away from First Take.” CT Insider+3SI+3TV Insider+3

• She will be leaving ESPN at the end of 2025, according to reports, having declined the network’s offer for contract renewal. TV Insider+3Sports Media Watch+3Wikipedia+3

• She thanked her colleagues, fans, and ESPN for “lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories …” and closed her message with “Stay tuned,” suggesting future activity or projects beyond ESPN. SI+1

• Stephen A. Smith opened First Take the next morning without her and paid tribute, noting her decade-long role and expressing regret at her departure. New York Post+2SI+2

What Remains Unclear — And Fueling the Speculation

While Qerim’s message was public, there are several unanswered questions, and the speculation around these questions is shaping up fast.

1. “Abrupt Resignation” vs. Planned Exit
   Though the exit was announced as a 2025 departure, some colleagues and insiders say it felt more sudden than expected. Stephen A. Smith described her decision as “abrupt,” especially given ongoing contract negotiations. Sports Media Watch+1

2. Contract Negotiation Fallout
   ESPN reportedly made an offer to renew her contract, which she rejected. But no official details have been released about terms—how much she asked for, what rights (editorial, scheduling, etc.) she wanted, or whether there were disagreements over creative control or role expectations. Sports Media Watch+1

3. Departure Timing & Last Show
   Though she’s officially set to stay through the end of the year, she did not appear on First Take immediately after the announcement. Some reports suggest her last day hasn’t been scheduled publicly, leading to speculation that her final episodes may be sooner than many think. New York Post+2SI+2

4. Personal Factors
   There are hints in her messages about personal reflection. Recent public remarks suggest that she’s dealing with health issues (such as her past disclosure of struggles with endometriosis) and may also want more balance, time off, or lower profile work. However, nothing has been officially confirmed that these were factors in her decision to leave. CT Insider+1

5. What’s Next for First Take (and for Her)
   ESPN has not announced a permanent replacement. The show has had rotating moderators when Qerim was absent for breaks. Meanwhile, her “Stay tuned” line suggests she might have other projects lined up, possibly outside ESPN. SI+1

The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters

Qerim’s role on First Take has often been underappreciated in discussions. She wasn’t just a bystander; as moderator she helped steer chaotic debates, managed airtime between Stephen A. Smith and others, and embodied consistency as hosts and formats shifted. That role carries weight—in show tone, narrative framing, and in public expectations.

Her departure raises questions about how ESPN values moderators versus more prominent, loud personalities. It also highlights the pressures on on-air talent in high-profile debate shows: contract struggles, work-life balance, public scrutiny, and the choices around maintaining voice, visibility, and influence.

What to Watch for in the Coming Weeks

• Official Announcement of Final On-Air Date: Fans will be watching for when her actual last show airs.

• Who Will Be Her Successor: Will ESPN promote from within or bring in someone new? The chemistry between moderator and co-hosts is key for First Take.

• Any Statements about Her Future Plans: Her “Stay tuned” hints at new work ahead; what form that takes will be telling.

• Reactions from ESPN Executives: The tone from ESPN leadership in the coming days may offer clues on whether this was purely her choice, or if behind-the-scenes frictions played a role.

• Fan and Industry Response: Social media and media commentary will likely gauge whether viewers believe the show will change fundamentally without her.

What We May Never Know

Some things may remain in the dark:

• The complete details of her contract negotiations.

• Private conversations and internal disagreements.

• Personal considerations (health, family, burnout) unless Qerim chooses to reveal them in her own words.

Conclusion

Molly Qerim’s exit from ESPN’s First Take marks the end of a significant era. Her role as moderator for a decade was more than ceremonial; she was pivotal to the show’s structure, tone, and credibility. While she presents her departure as a decision born of reflection and gratitude, many insiders believe that contract issues, personal priorities, and timing all played a part. What remains certain is that First Take will feel a different energy without her, and her next steps will be closely watched by many who have respected the poise and professionalism she brought each morning.