Stephen A. Smith Biography: Sports Analyst, Host & Journalist
Stephen Anthony Smith is a prominent American sports television personality, sports radio host, sports journalist, and actor.
Known for his bold and provocative commentary, Smith has become a leading figure in sports media, particularly through his work with ESPN.
Early Life and Education
Smith was raised in the Hollis section of Queens, New York, as the youngest of six children, with four older sisters, a half-brother, and an older brother, Basil, who died in a car accident in 1992.
His parents hailed from Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and his father managed a hardware store.
Smith attended Thomas Edison High School, spent a year at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and later earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from Winston-Salem State University in 1991, where he played basketball on a scholarship and wrote for the university newspaper, The News Argus.
His early journalism career began with a controversial article calling for the retirement of his basketball coach, Clarence Gaines, showcasing his fearless style.
Career
Print Journalism
Smith’s journalism career started in the early 1990s with stints at the Winston-Salem Journal, Greensboro News and Record, and New York Daily News.
In 1994, he joined The Philadelphia Inquirer, initially covering the Philadelphia 76ers as an NBA columnist before becoming a general sports columnist in 2003.
His tenure at the Inquirer was turbulent; in 2007, he was demoted to general assignment reporter due to his growing television and radio commitments, and the relationship ended in 2008.
After winning an arbitrator’s ruling, he returned briefly in 2010, agreeing to remove political content from his platforms.
Television and Radio
Smith’s television career began in 1999 with CNN/SI. He joined ESPN in 2003 as an NBA analyst on NBA Shootaround (later NBA Countdown) and contributed to SportsCenter and other programs.
From 2005 to 2007, he hosted Quite Frankly with Stephen A. Smith on ESPN2, and from 2005 to 2008, he hosted The Stephen A. Smith Show on ESPN Radio.
After a brief departure from ESPN in 2009, he worked as a Fox Sports Radio contributor and host, notably predicting the Miami Heat’s 2010 free-agency signings of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh.
Smith returned to ESPN in 2011 and became a permanent co-host of First Take in 2012, initially with Skip Bayless and later with Max Kellerman and Molly Qerim. First Take became the top-rated morning sports show, driven by Smith’s charismatic and argumentative style.
He also hosts The Stephen A. Smith Show podcast, launched in 2022 under his production company, Mr. SAS Productions, covering sports, entertainment, and societal issues.
Additionally, he serves as an analyst on NBA Countdown, hosts NBA in Stephen A’s World, and commentates for UFC and boxing events.
In 2025, Smith reportedly signed a five-year, $100M+ contract with ESPN, cementing his status as a network cornerstone.
Acting and Other Ventures
Smith has appeared in acting roles, including a recurring part as Brick on General Hospital (2007, 2016–present), a cameo in I Think I Love My Wife (2007), and a role in Creed III.
He has also featured in Oberto beef jerky commercials and published a memoir, Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes, in 2023, which became a New York Times bestseller.
Controversies
Smith’s outspoken nature has sparked criticism. In 2015, he faced backlash for a sexist remark about female soccer players during the FIFA Women’s World Cup, for which he apologized.
He was suspended by ESPN for a week in 2014 over comments on domestic abuse related to the Ray Rice case.
Other controversies include accusations of racial bias in NFL roster decisions (2015) and polarizing political remarks, such as those on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Despite these, his audience remains strong due to his engaging style.
Personal Interest
He supports causes like literacy, HBCUs, homelessness, and veterans’ welfare and is known for his philanthropy, including events tied to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
His net worth is estimated at $16 million, with an annual ESPN salary of approximately $8–10 million, supplemented by his podcast and other ventures.
Legacy
Stephen A. Smith’s rise from modest beginnings to a sports media titan reflects his work ethic and unapologetic persona.
His ability to blend journalism, entertainment, and social commentary has made him a polarizing yet undeniable force, with First Take and his podcast commanding massive audiences.
His influence extends beyond sports, as he uses his platform to address broader societal issues, earning both admiration and critique.
Age:
Stephen A. Smith is 57 years old, born on October 14, 1967, which makes his Zodiac sign Libra. He is of African-American ethnicity and holds American nationality.
Parents and Siblings:
Stephen A. Smith was born in the Bronx, New York, and raised in Hollis, Queens.
His father managed a hardware store and was a huge baseball fan, which influenced Stephen’s early love for sports.
His mother, Janet Smith, was a dedicated homemaker who passed away in 2017.
He is the youngest of six children, with four older sisters and an older brother named Basil, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 1992. Additionally, he has a half-brother on his father’s side.
His parents were originally from Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. His maternal grandmother was white, while the rest of his grandparents were Black.
Wife:
Stephen A. Smith is not married and has chosen to keep his personal life private. However, he has revealed that he is a proud father of two daughters, Samantha and Nyla.
He first disclosed his fatherhood in 2019, mentioning that his daughters were already 11 and 10 years old at the time.
Smith has spoken about how his daughters have brought new meaning to his life, especially after the passing of his mother, Janet Smith.
He is deeply protective of his daughters and prefers to keep them out of the public eye. Smith has shared that his daughters are his top priority, and he takes pride in being a dedicated father.
Height, Weight:
Stephen A. Smith stands at 6 feet 1 inch (185.5 cm) tall and weighs approximately 86 kg (189.5 lbs).
Career and Background:
Stephen A. Smith began his journalism career writing for the Winston-Salem Journal, Greensboro News and Record, and New York Daily News.
He gained significant attention at The Philadelphia Inquirer as an NBA columnist. Stephen A. Smith transitioned to television with ESPN and rose to fame as a commentator on shows like First Take, where his debates became legendary.
He also hosted his own radio shows, including The Stephen A. Smith Show, and has appeared as an NBA analyst on SportsCenter.
His signature outspoken style and deep sports knowledge have made him a staple in American sports media.
Here’s an expanded look at his journey across print, radio, and television:
Print Media
Stephen A. Smith began his journalism career in print, working for several notable publications:
- Winston-Salem Journal: Smith started here, covering local sports and building his foundation in journalism.
- Greensboro News and Record: He continued to refine his reporting skills, gaining experience in sports coverage.
- New York Daily News: Smith transitioned to one of the largest media markets, showcasing his ability to thrive in competitive environments.
- The Philadelphia Inquirer: In 1994, Smith joined as an NBA columnist, focusing on the Philadelphia 76ers. He later became a general sports columnist, demonstrating his adaptability and broad knowledge of sports. Despite a brief departure in 2008, Smith returned in 2010 after an arbitrator’s ruling reinstated him.
Radio
Smith’s radio career allowed him to connect with audiences on a more personal level:
- WEPN (1050 ESPN Radio): He hosted The Stephen A. Smith Show, which aired nationally and highlighted his dynamic personality and insightful commentary.
- SiriusXM Radio: Smith expanded his reach by hosting shows on SiriusXM, catering to satellite radio audiences and solidifying his presence in sports media.
Television
Television became the platform where Smith truly rose to prominence:
- ESPN: Smith is synonymous with ESPN, where he has been a key figure on multiple programs:
-
- First Take: Known for his bold and often controversial commentary, Smith has become a household name through this show.
-
- SportsCenter: Regularly appears as an NBA analyst, providing expert insights.
-
- NBA Countdown: Offers pre-game and post-game analysis, showcasing his deep understanding of basketball.
-
- Various ESPN NBA broadcasts: Smith’s expertise is frequently featured across ESPN’s NBA coverage.
- Fox Sports: Before returning to ESPN, Smith briefly worked at Fox Sports, hosting The Stephen A. Smith Show on Fox Sports Radio. This stint demonstrated his ability to succeed outside of ESPN.
Other Ventures
Beyond traditional media, Smith has explored other opportunities:
- Acting: He has appeared in TV shows and movies, adding another dimension to his career.
- Blogging: Smith launched his own blog, StephenA.com, where he shared his perspectives and connected directly with fans.
Stephen A. Smith has been involved in numerous notable sports coverage moments throughout his career. Here are some highlights:
NBA Coverage
- Philadelphia 76ers: Smith gained recognition as an NBA columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer, where he extensively covered the Philadelphia 76ers, including the career of Allen Iverson. His insights and bold opinions on the team and its players earned him a reputation as a leading voice in basketball journalism.
- ESPN NBA Analysis: Smith has provided expert analysis on ESPN’s SportsCenter, NBA Countdown, and various NBA broadcasts, offering in-depth commentary on games, players, and league developments.
Controversial Commentary
- Smith is known for his outspoken style, which has led to several controversial moments. His bold opinions on athletes, coaches, and sports-related issues often spark debates and discussions, making him a polarizing yet influential figure in sports media.
Major Events
- First Take: As a co-host of ESPN’s First Take, Smith has covered a wide range of sports topics, including high-profile games, trades, and controversies. His dynamic exchanges with fellow analysts have become a hallmark of the show.
- NFL and Boxing: While basketball is his primary focus, Smith has also covered NFL games and boxing matches, showcasing his versatility as a sports journalist.
Social and Cultural Impact
- Smith’s commentary often transcends sports, addressing broader societal issues such as race, politics, and social justice. His ability to blend sports analysis with cultural commentary has made him a unique voice in the industry.
Awards and Recognitions
Stephen A. Smith has received several awards and recognitions throughout his illustrious career in sports journalism and media. Here are some notable highlights:
Lifetime Achievement Award
- Joseph M. Quinn Award: In 2024, Smith was honored with the Los Angeles Press Club’s prestigious Joseph M. Quinn Award for Lifetime Achievement. This recognition celebrates his unparalleled contributions to sports journalism and his charismatic presence in media.
Best-Selling Author
- Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes: Smith’s memoir, published in 2023, became a New York Times Best Seller. The book offers a profound glimpse into his inspiring journey and career.
Industry Impact
- Smith has been a trailblazer in sports media, redefining the boundaries of commentary and analysis. His work on ESPN’s First Take has made it the #1 sports morning show since 2012.
Other Recognitions
- Smith’s contributions to journalism and media have earned him widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as one of the most accomplished sports journalists in the country.
Net Worth and Salary:
Is Stephen A. Smith Married?
No, Stephen A. Smith is not married. He has chosen to keep his personal life private but has revealed that he is a proud father of two daughters, Samantha and Nyla. Smith was once engaged, but the relationship did not work out.
How Old Is Stephen A. Smith?
Stephen A. Smith is 57 years old, born on October 14, 1967.
Where Is Stephen A. Smith Working?
Stephen A. Smith is currently working at ESPN, where he holds several prominent roles:
Current Roles
- Featured Commentator and Executive Producer on First Take:
-
- Smith is a key figure on ESPN’s First Take, where he discusses and debates the day’s sports topics. He has been a part of the show since 2012.
-
- He also serves as the executive producer of the show through his production company, Mr. SAS Productions.
- Analyst on NBA Countdown:
-
- Smith provides expert analysis on ESPN and ABC’s NBA pregame show, NBA Countdown. He has been part of this program since 2021.
- Host of NBA in Stephen A’s World:
-
- This alternate presentation accompanies select ESPN NBA games throughout the season. Smith has hosted this show since 2022.
- Contributor to SportsCenter Specials:
-
- Smith leads several SportsCenter specials throughout the year, offering insights and commentary on marquee events.
- Podcast Host of Know Mercy with Stephen A. Smith:
-
- Launched in 2022, this podcast features Smith’s trademark analysis on headlines from sports, politics, entertainment, and social issues.
Stephen A. Smith is highly active on social media and maintains a significant presence across multiple platforms:
-
Instagram: @stephenasmith
He shares behind-the-scenes content, show highlights, and personal moments with his 5 million followers. -
X (formerly Twitter): @stephenasmith
Smith uses this platform to comment on trending sports topics, interact with fans, and promote his shows and podcast. -
Facebook: @stephena
He shares updates about his appearances, show clips, and other professional content.
In addition to these platforms, Stephen A. Smith hosts The Stephen A. Smith Show on YouTube and iHeartRadio, further extending his digital footprint.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.