Long-standing rumours about a romantic relationship between ESPN's popular First Take co-hosts, Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim, have been violently reignited. The controversy stems from recent explosive comments made by American comedian and radio host Corey Holcomb on his podcast.
Corey Holcomb's Explosive Podcast Allegations
During an episode of his YouTube podcast, CoreyHolcomb5150Land, Holcomb made a series of unverified and graphic claims. He asserted his belief that Smith and Qerim were involved in a relationship during their time working together on the flagship ESPN debate show.
"He got to be f**king that b**ch. Because nobody would tolerate Molly. Molly is an awful person. Awful," Holcomb stated bluntly. He elaborated, suggesting Smith's patience with Qerim on air was evidence of a deeper connection: "I think Stephen A. Smith is smashing Molly because why would somebody be around a woman as draining as that? He had to watch how he talked on the show."
Holcomb didn't stop there. He also took aim at Stephen A. Smith's character, calling him a "cornball sellout" and unfavourably comparing him to the late, beloved ESPN anchor Stuart Scott. Furthermore, he controversially linked Qerim's late 2025 resignation from First Take—which was reportedly over contract issues—to financial motives, claiming she left because "they still ain't pay her enough money."
A History of Denials and the Jalen Rose Connection
These new allegations have dredged up a rumour that has circulated for years, despite consistent and firm denials from both parties involved. For context, Molly Qerim was previously married to former NBA player and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose from 2018 to 2021. Their separation was amicable, with both deciding to remain friends and colleagues.
Holcomb referenced this past marriage in his rant, incorrectly labelling Rose as "Jaylen" and making claims about their brief union. This history has often been tangled into the speculation about Qerim and Smith.
However, no credible sources have ever confirmed a romantic link between Smith and Qerim. Both have officially refuted the rumours multiple times. In April 2024, Smith publicly shut down the speculation after a co-host joked about their matching white outfits making them look like a married couple. Smith clarified that "there's nothing going on" and called the rumours unfounded and overstated.
Qerim has similarly dismissed the talk, previously referring to the entire notion as "ridiculous." She backed Smith's 2024 statement, finding humour in how seriously some people took the baseless gossip.
The Aftermath and Unresolved Questions
The fallout from Qerim's 2025 exit was multifaceted. While she reportedly left due to contract dissatisfaction, Stephen A. Smith—despite having secured a major deal himself—also expressed feeling undervalued and was surprised by her sudden departure. This professional upheaval now finds itself back in the spotlight, coloured by Holcomb's salacious claims.
The core facts remain: Molly Qerim resigned from First Take in late 2025. Stephen A. Smith continues on the show. The dating rumours, though persistently resurfacing in various forms, have been consistently denied by the individuals at the centre of them. Corey Holcomb's recent comments have added fuel to a fire that, according to the principals, never existed in the first place, leaving fans and observers to dissect the uncomfortable blend of professional drama and invasive personal speculation.
