Smith and McAfee Reconcile After ESPN Blowup

Update March 9: Stephen A. Smith clarifies there is no animosity with fellow ESPN colleague Pat McAfee.

ESPN talking heads Pat McAfee and Stephen A. Smith recently engaged in a heated discussion over creative differences. The dispute reached a point where McAfee allegedly referred to Smith in a derogatory manner, as reported by the New York Post.

The disagreement stemmed from a project that Smith is overseeing at ESPN, where he also serves as an executive producer through his production company. Following the altercation, Smith reportedly banned McAfee from appearing on his show, “First Take,” in the future.

McAfee, who previously provided commentary on the show every Tuesday during football season, expressed unawareness of any ban. Contrarily, Smith denied the existence of a banishment, as per the publication.

Fortunately, both parties have resolved their differences, as confirmed by the Post.

Despite the clash, both McAfee and Smith have been key contributors to their respective ESPN programs. “First Take” garnered a record-high 496,000 viewers last year, while “The Pat McAfee Show” accumulated 298 million views across different platforms since its inception on ESPN.

Smith emphasized McAfee’s significant role in the success of their shows, praising his contributions and expressing eagerness to collaborate in the future. He lauded McAfee’s performance and stated that the latter’s presence on “First Take” for the upcoming season is welcomed, highlighting McAfee’s winning attitude as a valuable asset to the team.