Posted by 
MOLLY Qerim has thrilled fans with a return to First Take.
After a long period of First Take without any appearances from Molly Qerim or Stephen A, the show returned to normal on Monday.
Molly Qerim has returned to First Take after vacation[/caption]
Qerim is hosting the show again alongside Stephen A. Smith[/caption]
Qerim posted a picture on her Instagram story to celebrate the return to TV screens.
In the picture she wore a black and white dress while out on the streets of New York City.
Molly and Stephen A. sat next to each other for the first time in weeks on Monday’s show, and Stephen A. was thrilled to be back.
“Did you miss me?!” yelled the veteran sportscaster, who rocked a bright purple shirt and tie.
“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.
“Molly? I just don’t know what the hell Molly has been up to.”
Stephen A. did give fans a bit more bad news though, as he revealed he is only returning for the week before going back on break.
“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.”
The show wasn’t all bad news though, as Qerim announced that First Take will be recording with a live audience in August.
“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.”
Admission for the show is completely free on a first-come-first-serve basis.
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.
“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. also shared his excitement for the event, which he will be in attendance for.
“Oh we’re gonna have a good crowd, they’re gonna show up,” Stephen A. said.
Qerim and Smith will host a show with a live audience in August[/caption]
