ESPN broadcaster Stephen A. Smith is one of the most well-known sports personalities in the industry, but he recently stated how underpaid he is.
Smith earns about $8 million per year under his current contract with ESPN. The New York Post reported in 2021 noted that he also has a “$4 million-per-year production” contract as well.
Ahead of Game 1 of the World Series between the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies, Smith and the “First Take” panel discussed the absence of U.S.-born Black players on the rosters of either team for the first time since 1950. That led to him stating how underpaid he was.
“And so when you look at it from that perspective, and of course, people look at me, I’m not talking about me even though, I got news for you, I am underpaid compared to some people on television what they get paid, but that’s a subject for another day. I ain’t apologizing for that to a damn soul. I am underpaid. Having said all of that, it ain’t about me.”
His former colleague Jemele Hill agreed with that notion.
Former NFL star Tony Romo is making $17 million a year with CBS. ESPN signed play-by-play announcer Joe Buck for almost $15 million per year, and Troy Aikman for $18 million per year to be voices for Monday Night Football.
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Smith has been in the industry for years and seemingly has several assignments at ESPN other than just “First Take.”
He can also be seen on “NBA Countdown,” “Stephen A’s World,” and leading year-round SportsCenter specials.
