With Molly Qerim‘s departure from First Take confirmed, ESPN is evaluating several internal candidates to fill her longtime hosting role. Among the most talked-about is Shae Peppler Cornette, a familiar voice on SportsCenter and ESPN’s studio lineup.
Her name has sparked both support and skepticism from fans, making her a candidate who will either prove her readiness or face backlash under pressure.
Cornette‘s career path gives insight into why she’s in contention. A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in broadcast journalism and kinesiology, she cut her teeth covering Chicago sports – anchoring local TV, hosting pre- and postgame shows, and reporting on the Bears for Fox 32 and ESPN radio. She also led shows on the Big Ten Network and contributed to ESPN’s event coverage.
Today, she balances anchoring SportsCenter with studio appearances, demonstrating her versatility.
Fans are paying close attention to how she handles this moment. She recently filled in for Qerim on First Take, which gave audiences a preview of her tone and presence.
While some praised her performance, others questioned whether her bold Chicago sports roots and regional reputation might clash with the expectations of a national debate show.
Strengths, risks, and what’s at stake
Cornette’s strengths are clear: confident live delivery, strong football literacy, and a broadcast resume that spans reporting, anchoring, and cross-platform presence. Her charitable efforts-such as co-founding “Fashion’s Fight Against Cancer” – also speak to her character beyond the mic.
But this is a high stakes gig. First Take is built on instant reactions, sharp debates, and heavyweight personalities.
The risk is that any misstep – mispronunciation, awkward segue, or tone clash – will be magnified. Some fans already warn she needs to match the emotional energy and quick pivots the show demands. And in a field that includes Christine Williamson, Courtney Cronin, and Monica McNutt, she must stand out fast.
Still, Cornette’s audition moments have shown she’s unafraid. In her apology after mistakenly wearing a Packers jersey in Chicago, she handled backlash with humility – something stronger hosts often need.
If ESPN chooses her, she’ll inherit not just a chair next to Stephen A. Smith, but the legacy of First Take’s emotional highs and sharp takes.
Only time – and on-air chemistry – will tell whether Shae Peppler Cornette becomes the show’s next face or a short-lived curiosity in a high-pressure spotlight.
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