Wondering about Stephen A. Smith’s Net Worth and Salary?
Stephen A. Smith, an American sports media figure, boasts a net worth of $25 million, with an annual salary of $13 million. Known for his presence on various ESPN programs, he also excels as a writer for ESPN’s websites and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Apart from sports media, Stephen A. Smith has had success in talk radio and even tried his hand at acting, often appearing in movies with cameo roles.
Salary Details
From years leading up to April 2019, Stephen A. Smith earned $5 million annually. In a game-changing move, he signed a new ESPN deal in mid-April 2019 worth $8 million each year, making him the highest-paid ESPN personality and the top-paid sportscaster worldwide. However, in March 2020, he lost this title to Tony Romo, who landed a $17 million annual contract with CBS. Today, Stephen A. Smith takes home $13 million yearly from ESPN.
Declining $90 Million Offer
Surprisingly, in June 2024, it emerged that Stephen A. Smith turned down a lucrative $90 million contract from ESPN. The offer, spanning five years, equated to an average yearly salary of $18 million. Reports suggest that he rejected the deal as he hoped for an offer that would pay him $25 million annually.
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Early Life Story
Hailing from the Bronx, New York, Stephen A. Smith grew up in a family with a hardware store owner as a father, who was previously a renowned basketball and baseball player. Born in 1967, he was one of seven children and developed a passion for basketball early on. Thanks to a basketball scholarship, he attended Winston-Salem State University after a brief stint at the Fashion Institute of Technology. During his university basketball career playing under coach Clarence Gaines, Stephen A. Smith gained valuable tactical insights despite openly critiquing his coach’s decisions, particularly urging his retirement due to failing health. He graduated from university in 1991.
Early Career in Journalism
Post-graduation, Stephen A. Smith’s first significant journalism role was at the Winston-Salem Journal, where he initially worked as a sports department clerk. This opportunity paved the way for larger roles at publications like the Greensborough News and Record and the New York Daily News. Notably, his career breakthrough came when he joined The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Role at The Philadelphia Inquirer
Initially covering the Philadelphia 76ers as an NBA writer at The Philadelphia Inquirer, Stephen A. Smith’s role expanded over time, leading to two promotions and eventually making him the general sports columnist. Despite building a strong following, The Philadelphia Inquirer terminated his contract in 2008. This prompted him to start his blog and later win a legal battle against the publication, resulting in his reinstatement with restrictions on including his political views.
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Role at ESPN
Stephen A. Smith’s journey with ESPN dates back to 2003, starting as an analyst on the NBA Shootaround pregame show, later renamed NBA Countdown. Over time, he hosted his show, Quite Frankly With Stephen A. Smith, and The Stephen A. Smith Show, followed by his pivotal role on First Take since 2012. Alongside, he appeared on various ESPN shows, signing a 2014 contract worth $3 million annually. Post this, his ESPN salary rose from $5 million until April 2019. By 2023, he was reportedly earning $13 million annually with the network, cementing his status as one of ESPN’s highest-paid TV personalities.
Acting Venture
Stephen A. Smith delved into acting, beginning with appearances in shows like General Hospital. Furthermore, he featured in the movie I Think I Love My Wife alongside Chris Rock in 2007 and starred in beef jerky commercials for Oberto. In 2023, he had a cameo in Creed III, showcasing his versatile entertainment career.
Radio Journey
Diversifying his portfolio, Stephen A. Smith delved into Talk Radio, starting with WEPN radio in New York City back in 2005. His radio footprint expanded with contributions to Fox Sports Radio and hosting duties on Sirius/XM’s Mad Dog Sports Channel alongside ESPN Radio slots. Notably, between 2015 and 2019, his Sirius/XM show fetched him $1 million annually.
Noteworthy Controversies
Known for his unfiltered commentary, Stephen A. Smith’s candid approach has led to several controversies. Notably, one of the most talked-about incidents revolves around his outspoken views on various issues, sparking debates and discussions in the sports community.
Stephen A. Smith was at the center of controversies involving domestic violence connected to an NFL player and his wife, leading to the commentator’s brief suspension. He also caused a stir by suggesting racial prejudice in an NFL coach’s decisions. Again, the commentator faced backlash for making belittling comments about women’s soccer during the FIFA World Cup highlight reel.
Personal Life
Stephen A. Smith has never been married and has two daughters who are one year apart in age, with limited public information available about them. Maintaining a tight-lipped stance on his personal life, Smith has not disclosed details about his dating life, although there have been rumors of past engagement.