FIRST Take is giving fans the opportunity to take in an episode of the show in-person.
Molly Qerim announced on First Take that the show will be producing a show with a live audience in August.
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Molly Qerim announced that First Take is filming in front of a live audience[/caption]
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First Take will have free tickets to their show in August[/caption]
Qerim detailed the upcoming show for fans in a promo during Monday’s episode of First Take.
“Get ready,” Qerim said.
“Chi-town here we come. On Friday, August 2 First Take will be live in front of a live audience for this year’s National Association of Black Journalist’s conference.
“The show will take place at the Hilton Chicago as a part of the NABJ festivities.”
Qerim revealed an exciting detail, that admission to the show is completely free.
“Admission is free, and exclusive to NABJ participants only,” Qerim continued.
“Doors open at 6:30 am CT, on a first come first serve seated basis.
“Chi-town we can’t wait to see you, Stephen A. I am so excited, those are the best crowds.”
Stephen A. shared his excitement for the show after Qerim gave details to viewers.
“Oh we’re gonna have a good crowd, they’re gonna show up,” Stephen A. said.
“National Association of Black Journalists? Oh they’re gonna be there.”
Monday was also Stephen A’s first show back on First Take after a long hiatus.
“Did you miss me?!” he yelled.
“I know you did, whether you want to admit it or not.
“My man Brian Windhorst is here, he’s a world traveler. He’s been all over the place.
First Take viewing figures
First Take went from strength to strength under the guidance of Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim last year.
The weekday ESPN debate show averaged 496,000 viewers in 2023 – making it the most-watched year in program history.
Its December average of 611,000 was a 24% year-on-year increase compared to 2022.
The show also reported more than 250 million views on YouTube.
First Take was helped by the addition of Shannon Sharpe alongside Smith and Qerim after he left Fox Sports’ Undisputed.
“Molly? I just don’t know what the hell Molly has been up to.”
Stephen A. did confirm that he will only be back briefly before going back on vacation.
“So I decided, let me take a break, from my break, to come in and break people’s emotions and feelings,” he added.
“It’s only gonna be a few days, then I’m disappearing again.”
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Stephen A. Smith returned to First Take for the announcement[/caption]