Stephen A. Smith is speaking out on ESPN's ongoing layoffs, saying on his personal podcast that more are coming soon to the worldwide leader in sports.
As one of ESPN's most recognizable talents, the "First Take" commentator seems immune to the layoffs, part of a sweeping series of budget cuts by parent company Disney. But Smith, referencing his 2009 firing from the company, believes he could be part of the next round of layoffs.
"This ain’t the end. More is coming," Smith said of the layoffs. "And yes, ladies and gentlemen, I could be next. Let me tell you all something. Don’t ever, ever, ever in your life as a Black person take anything for granted. I told you before, when white folks catch a cold, Black folks catch pneumonia. …
"The one thing I could tell you about Stephen A, this ain’t 2009. I really didn’t see it coming. My eyes are always wide open now. I’m never comfortable. I never take anything for granted and I never assume that I’m safe."
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Indeed, several notable names have been among the talent let go by ESPN, including Suzy Kolber, Jeff Van Gundy, Jalen Rose and more. The volume of talent let go by ESPN has also raised criticisms against Smith, considering he commands a multi-million dollar contract with the company.
Stephen A. Smith contract
Smith also addressed his own salary in regard to the layoffs, taking aim at critics who ask why he remains with the company. Per Awful Announcing, he makes $12 million annually, which pales in comparison to some of his ESPN contemporaries, especially considering he is one of the most forward-facing talents at the company. He has said before ESPN underpays him.
"Let me address something to some of the haters out there about me. Y'all can kiss my a—. Twice," Smith said. "And I’m talking directly to the people in the industry who sat up there and said, 'Why isn’t Stephen A. gone?'
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a few people at ESPN getting paid more than me. They don't have a No. 1 show, they don’t have top ratings, they don’t generate more revenue … and by the way, none of them are Black. How come you didn’t bring their names up? I wonder why? I’m talking to those folks, the critics in media, or the wannabe media with the blogosphere and the websites."
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Smith is not the only media personality to draw criticism amid ESPN's layoffs. Pat McAfee, whose podcast "The Pat McAfee Show" was picked up by the company in May, reportedly will make $85 million over the next five years (averaging $17 million annually).
Moving forward, it appears the salaries Smith and McAfee make at ESPN will be exceptions — not the rule. Especially if, as Smith expects, the company continues laying off its on-air talent.