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Skip Bayless is making his shocking return to ESPN’s First Take this Friday. After nearly a decade away from the network, the legendary debate co-host reunites with Stephen A. Smith for a one-time special appearance on May 8, 2026. This moment marks their first on-air reunion since 2016.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Return Date: Friday, May 8, 2026, live from Los Angeles
- Partnership Origin: Bayless and Smith launched First Take together in 2012
- Years Apart: Nearly 10 years since Bayless left ESPN for Fox Sports
- Network Recognition: First Take averaged 491,000 viewers in April, up 6% year-over-year
The Debate Duo That Defined Sports Television
Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith revolutionized broadcast sports when they launched First Take together in 2012. Their legendary partnership lasted until 2016, featuring unforgettable debates. They clashed over LeBron James, the Dallas Cowboys, and Michael Jordan comparisons. For four years, they set the standard for sports debate shows.
Smith has consistently credited his career rise to this collaboration. He previously stated, “I would not be on First Take without Skip Bayless.” This reunion acknowledges the profound impact they created together in sports media history.
Skip Bayless reunites with Stephen A. Smith on First Take Friday
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Why Skip Left and What He’s Been Doing Since
Bayless departed ESPN in June 2016 to join Fox Sports, where he co-hosted Undisputed with Shannon Sharpe for nearly a decade. That show ran from 2016 to 2024. Since then, Skip has hosted his own podcast, The Skip Bayless Show. He also appears regularly on The Arena: Gridiron.
Despite leaving ESPN, Bayless has maintained his presence in sports media. He recently reunited with Smith on his podcast in 2025. The February 2026 Super Bowl 60 week marked their backstage reconnection on Radio Row. Now, this Friday appearance represents their biggest collaboration since the network split.
First Take’s Evolution and Current Lineup
Stephen A. Smith has remained the constant voice of First Take for the entire journey. The show went through host changes over the years. Max Kellerman replaced Bayless from 2016 to 2021. Recently, Shae Cornette became the show’s new moderator in November 2025. She replaced Molly Qerim, who departed after a decade.
| Timeline Element | Details |
| Original Launch | 2012 with Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith |
| Bayless Final Episode | June 21, 2016 |
| Current Host Team | Stephen A. Smith and Shae Cornette (2025 onward) |
| April 2026 Viewership | 491,000 viewers, up 6% year-over-year |
“I would not be on First Take without Skip Bayless. I’m on First Take because Skip Bayless brought me to First Take. When you look at my success in this business, it really took off to another level when I got on First Take.”
— Stephen A. Smith, on his career collaboration with Bayless
What Will They Debate on Friday’s Reunion Episode
Five topics should dominate Friday’s show. LeBron James and the NBA playoffs will spark immediate debate. Stephen A. Smith‘s New York Knicks are fighting for a championship. Skip’s beloved Dallas Cowboys will face scrutiny over their offseason moves. Both hosts have strong opinions about NFL trades and quarterback evaluations.
The basketball conversation alone could fill hours. Bayless famously criticized LeBron throughout their partnership. Smith defended the superstar consistently. Their recent 2025 podcast reunion showed they still have chemistry. Expect explosive takes on current playoff narratives, MVP races, and league direction through their signature passionate lenses.
Will This Brief Reunion Lead to Anything More?
ESPN officially calls this appearance a “one-time reunion,” suggesting no permanent return. Smith previously stated in 2024 that their partnership was finished permanently. However, the fact that Smith orchestrated this guest appearance says something deeper. He clearly values the legacy they built together.
The network’s decision to promote this heavily hints at major ratings potential. First Take has already grown 5% year-to-date compared to 2025. A special reunion episode could generate enormous buzz. Whether this Friday leads to more appearances remains unknown, but the door may have officially reopened between these two sports television icons.
