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Sports Desk • Sports Media

Stephen A. Smith

Stephen A.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

Stephen A. Smith is an American sports commentator best known for his loud, opinionated style on ESPN's First Take. He has been a prominent voice in sports media since 2003.

What it is

Stephen A. Smith is a sports television personality, journalist, and radio host who has been a featured commentator and executive producer on ESPN's First Take since 2003. He started in print journalism, including The Philadelphia Inquirer, before moving to broadcasting. His career includes authoring a memoir, Straight Shooter, and acting roles.

Why it matters

Smith is one of ESPN's most recognizable and controversial personalities, known for his blunt, high-decibel debates. His reach extends into Canada, where his commentary is widely watched through ESPN programming and international sports coverage. His style influences sports media discourse across North America.

Key details

Born on October 14, 1967, in the Bronx, New York, Smith holds a B.A. from Winston-Salem State University. He has two daughters. His nickname 'Screamin'' A reflects his passionate delivery. He is described as one of America's most highly paid sports commentators, though exact salary and net worth figures are not provided in available sources.

In short

  • Stephen A. Smith is known for his loud, opinionated sports commentary on ESPN's First Take.
  • He began his career in print journalism and joined ESPN in 2003.
  • His nickname 'Screamin'' A highlights his high-decibel debating style.
  • He is a prominent figure in North American sports media, widely watched by Canadian fans.
Canadian angle

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

Quick 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.
Why is Stephen A. Smith so loud?
Sources describe his style as high-decibel, blunt, and highly opinionated, which contributed to his 'Screamin'' A nickname.

Sources

  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.