The longtime host takes a family break as ESPN transitions to a new era in Manhattan.

Molly Qerim is stepping away from her full-time hosting role on ESPN’s First Take, but only temporarily. The 41-year-old confirmed she’ll be off the air for a few weeks to enjoy personal time with family following the conclusion of the NBA season.

She described her break as a chance to recharge, telling viewers she was headed to an undisclosed location to “work on her tan lines” and take advantage of a quiet period in the American sports calendar.

Summer Slowdown

Qerim’s time off aligns with the traditional summer lull in U.S. sports. The NBA and NHL seasons have wrapped, the NFL remains in its offseason, and only MLB and MLS are currently active.

This pause offers a rare window for sports media figures to travel, rest, or reconnect with family before coverage ramps back up in the fall.

A Key Piece of First Take

Following Shannon Sharpe’s 2023 exit from FS1, Qerim’s role grew even more prominent as ESPN doubled down on its morning programming, anchored by Smith, who signed a major contract reportedly worth over $100 million.

During her absence, First Take will continue airing weekdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET with Smith and a rotating lineup of analysts.

Hudson Square Era Begins

Qerim’s break coincides with a broader transition for First Take and ESPN. The show recently began broadcasting from its new home at 7 Hudson Square, a state-of-the-art facility in Lower Manhattan officially named the Robert A. Iger Building.

The 22-story tower houses ESPN, ABC News, and other Disney-owned brands, and features advanced production technology. First Take now airs from Studio 2Y, designed to evoke an upscale Manhattan penthouse with sweeping city visuals.

“The space has the energy to match the bold conversations and big personalities our fans love,”said ESPN President

Qerim Expected Back for NFL, NBA Ramp-Up

Qerim is expected to return in time for ESPN’s fall coverage push, which includes the Eagles vs. Cowboys NFL opener and the launch of the 2025–26 NBA season.

For now, she’s stepping back, but her seat at First Take remains firmly in place.