- Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim have consistently denied rumors of a romantic relationship.
- Molly Qerim’s ex-husband, Jalen Rose, has also dismissed the rumors, stating they were not the reason for his divorce from Qerim.
- Smith and Qerim maintain a strong professional partnership and friendship, with Smith viewing the rumors as a compliment to their on-screen presence.
For years, sports fans and media enthusiasts have speculated about a potential romantic relationship between ESPN personalities Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim. The co-hosts of “First Take” have developed an undeniable on-screen chemistry, leading many to wonder if their connection extends beyond the confines of the show. However, both Smith and Qerim have consistently denied these rumors, setting the record straight once and for all.
Are Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim Dating? The Truth Behind the Rumors
During an episode of “First Take” in April 2024, guest analyst Chris “Mad Dog” Russo jokingly suggested that Smith and Qerim had gotten married, as they were both wearing white outfits. This playful remark reignited the long-standing rumors about their relationship status. However, both Smith and Qerim quickly dismissed the speculation, with Smith stating:
“No, there’s nothing going on. America’s been lying about that for years.”
Qerim echoed his sentiment, finding the rumors laughable:
“The funniest part is people actually believe it. It’s ridiculous.”
Molly Qerim’s Divorce and Jalen Rose’s Perspective
In December 2021, Molly Qerim’s divorce from her ex-husband, Jalen Rose, another ESPN analyst, was made public. Rose addressed the rumors about a relationship between Qerim and Smith in an April 2022 interview with GQ:
“Not only speculating—in particular, saying it was because her and Stephen A. Smith had a relationship. And, like, unequivocally, I’m not here to speak for what he does in his personal life or what she does in her personal life. We still 100. I would just say that for people who thought we parted ways because they have a relationship? Then I got some swampland in Detroit to sell you for top dollar. That is not why we split.”
Rose emphasized that he held no ill will towards either Qerim or Smith following their divorce.
A Professional Partnership and Friendship
Despite the persistent rumors, Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim maintain a strong professional partnership and friendship. They have worked together on “First Take” since 2015, with Qerim serving as the main host and Smith rotating through various co-hosts during this period.
Smith even found a way to spin the rumors as a compliment to both himself, Qerim, and the show:
“It does mean that First Take is not only a number one show because of our content, but we look the part.”
FAQs
Q: Are Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim dating?
A: No, both Smith and Qerim have denied the rumors and stated there is nothing romantic between them.
Q: Did Molly Qerim’s divorce from Jalen Rose have anything to do with Stephen A. Smith?
A: No, Jalen Rose has explicitly stated that the divorce was not due to a relationship between Qerim and Smith.
Q: How long have Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim worked together on “First Take”?
A: Smith and Qerim have co-hosted “First Take” together since 2015, with Qerim serving as the main host during this period.
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Last Updated on August 27, 2024 by 247 News Around The World
