Just a few weeks ago, the sports media world learned that Max Kellerman will no longer play a part in “First Take.”
The initial reason for Kellerman’s departure from the program remained unknown. However, shortly after the news become official, media insider Andrew Marchand, suggested it was Stephen A. Smith who wanted Max off the show.
Stephen A. didn’t confirm the news, and instead maintained that Kellerman was great at his job. However, earlier this week, the $12 million man changed his tune.
During an appearance on Ebro in The Morning, Stephen A. confirmed he wanted Kellerman off the show.
“The rumor’s accurate in terms of me wanting him off the show. Let’s get that out the way — yes, I did,” Stephen A. said. “We don’t have a bad relationship. I think he’s a real good guy, I appreciate what he did for the show, we were number one for five years, we stayed number one, and I appreciate that.”
Stephen A Smith on wanting Max Kellerman to be taken off First Take pic.twitter.com/Zbn846OiLn
— Unfiltered Media ™️ (@UnfilteredInd) September 10, 2021
Stephen A. continued, saying he thought the show needed a change and the he and Keller didn’t have good partnership anymore.
It wasn’t really about asking him to be off the show, it was about the fact that I knew that we, together — as far as I was concerned — was not a great partnership anymore and that was something that needed to change.”
It’s a tough break for Kellerman, but Stephen A. is ESPN’s golden goose.
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