September 24th 2023.
In a lengthy episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show podcast lasting nearly an hour and a half, Smith sat down for an exclusive interview with his First Take co-host Shannon Sharpe, delving into Sharpe's much-talked-about departure from rival show Undisputed.
Sharpe explored a range of subjects during the conversation, including his First Take debut across from Smith, which marked the first time HBCU alums will be co-hosts on the show.
Eventually, the topic of conversation turned to Sharpe's exit from Undisputed, which was spurred by comments from his co-host Skip Bayless that he was jealous of quarterback Tom Brady. Sharpe candidly discussed with Smith what ultimately led to the exit, telling Smith "It had gotten to the point where we needed to go our separate ways. I wish it had been handled differently, but it was handled the way that it was."
Sharpe admitted that he had certain "blind spots" when it came to Bayless. He commented that Bayless took a point he was making about Brady and attacked him personally, but he comments that in the heat of the moment, he felt that Bayless disrespected him personally. Sharpe shared that it took quite a bit for him not to lay hands on his co-host in that moment.
Smith and Sharpe also discussed the nature of their relationship with Bayless, with Sharpe noting that eventually their relationship to each other was more or less contained to their workspace because that's how Bayless wanted it. Smith noted that Sharpe's personal conduct is probably due to his upbringing in the South, as he noted that there is a tendency for Black men in the South not to tolerate disrespect from anyone.
Sharpe agreed, saying, "It's kind of like a bully, once a bully does something to you, if you don't stand up, he'll keep doing it."
Smith also told Sharpe on Club Shay Shay, "No matter how problematic he can be, the reality is that I wouldn't be where I am today if he didn't give me that opportunity on 'First Take.' For me to insult him in any way is just disrespectful."
It is clear from Smith and Sharpe's previous discussion about Bayless on Sharpe's podcast Club Shay Shay that the two men are both deeply appreciative of the way Bayless boosted both of their careers.
The conversation between Smith and Sharpe was notably connected, with both men recognizing the impact that Bayless had on their lives. Ultimately, it was evident that Sharpe's comments were fueled by his strong sense of southern pride and his refusal to be disrespected.
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