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Stephen A. Smith

Stephen A.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Stephen A. Smith is an American sports television personality, sports journalist, radio host, author, and actor known for his outspoken commentary on ESPN's First Take. He has been one of the network's most visible commentators since 2003 and is widely recognized for his provocative, high-volume debating style. He was born on October 14, 1967, in Bronx, New York.

Career

Smith began in print journalism and later moved into broadcasting, including work for The Philadelphia Inquirer before joining ESPN in 2003. He became a key on-air presence on First Take and has appeared on other ESPN programs.

Public image

Smith is known for passionate, confrontational, and often controversial sports commentary. His high-decibel delivery and distinctive style helped earn him the nickname 'Screamin’ A'.

Other work

In addition to sports media, Smith has worked as an author, producer, podcaster, and actor. His memoir, Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes, was published in 2023.

Personal life

Smith was born on October 14, 1967, which makes him 58 years old as of 2026. Public sources in the provided results identify him as having two daughters.

Key facts

  • Stephen A. Smith is a prominent sports commentator and executive producer on ESPN's First Take.
  • He began his career in print journalism before moving to television and radio.
  • He is known for his blunt, high-volume, and often controversial sports analysis.
  • He has also worked as an author, actor, and producer, with a memoir published in 2023.
  • He is widely recognized as one of ESPN's most visible and polarizing personalities.
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Canadian context

Smith has a North American media profile and is widely watched by Canadian sports fans through ESPN coverage and international sports commentary.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Stephen A. Smith?
Stephen A. Smith is an American sports commentator, journalist, radio host, author, and actor best known for ESPN's First Take.
How old is Stephen A. Smith?
He was born on October 14, 1967, so he is 58 years old as of 2026.
What is Stephen A. Smith's salary?
The provided results do not give a current salary figure. Britannica describes him as one of America's most highly paid sports commentators.
What is Stephen A. Smith's net worth?
The provided results do not give a verified net worth figure, so no exact amount can be stated from these sources.
What happened to Stephen A. Smith?
Nothing in the provided sources indicates a single incident or major change; he remains active at ESPN, including as a commentator and executive producer on First Take.
Why is Stephen A. Smith so loud?
Sources describe his style as high-decibel, blunt, and highly opinionated, and note that this delivery contributed to his 'Screamin’ A' nickname.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_A._Smith
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, occupations, ESPN employment, First Take role, and commentary style.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Stephen-A-Smith
    Supports: Biography, birth date, nickname, public reputation, commentary style, and status as a highly paid commentator.
  3. ESPN Press Room — https://espnpressroom.com/bio/stephen-a-smith/
    Supports: Current ESPN role as featured commentator and executive producer on First Take.
  4. Winston-Salem State University Athletics — https://wssurams.com/honors/c-e-big-house-gaines-hall-of-fame/stephen-a-smith/100
    Supports: Education and early journalism career details.
  5. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1946567/bio/
    Supports: Birth details, nickname, and acting credits.