A new era at “First Take” will soon begin.

One month after host Molly Qerim abruptly left the ESPN program and the network , it was announced in October 2025 that “SportsCenter” anchor Shae Cornette would take on the role . 7

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Here’s what to know about Cornette before she takes her permanent seat at the “First Take” table beside Stephen A. Smith on Nov. 3.

Career beginnings 7

A graduate of Indiana University, Cornette’s broadcasting career began at the Big Ten Network. She later joined Fox 32 in Chicago, where she covered the Bears, “anchoring newscasts, hosting pre- and post-game shows, and leading her own weekly sports program, Bears Unleashed,” according to her ESPN profile.

Joining ESPN

Cornette joined ESPN in 2020.

In a February 2024 profile with Westport Maga

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