Skip Bayless Got Very Emotional About His ‘First Take’ Departure, Thanked The Haters And Stephen A. Smith For Everything

Yesterday, the news of Skip Bayless’s departure from ESPN spread across the internet like wildfire. Some were ecstatic to see the shockjock stepping down from his role on First Take, and some were upset, saying the show would never be the same.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s the contentious and often conflicting attitudes of Bayless and his cohort Stephen A. Smith make for some great television.

In his first appearance since the news broke on the show he helped build Wednesday morning, Skip took a few moments to offer his thanks to everyone who has supported him through the years – even the haters- and shared a special moment with Stephen A. that oozed with professional respect.


Is it dusty in here, or is that me? No matter how much you hate some of Skip Bayless’s takes, I think we can all agree his work has been a cornerstone of morning sports television for years to come.

Here’s wishing him continued success when he starts his new role with Fox Sports at the conclusion of the NBA Finals.

[H/t The Big Lead]