Molly Qerim, long-time face of ESPN’s First Take, recently shocked many fans and colleagues with the announcement that she will be leaving the show—and the network—at the end of 2025. The decision, while confirmed by reliable sources, has raised questions about why she is moving on, what her next steps might be, and how this impacts her success both professionally and personally. In this article, we dig into the recent developments, her net worth, and her romantic history.
Who is Molly Qerim?
Before delving into what’s happening now, it helps to understand who Molly Qerim is and how she became a household name in sports media.
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Full Name: Molly Qerim (sometimes referenced with her married name when she was married to Jalen Rose).
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Born: March 31, 1984, in New Haven, Connecticut. Raised in Cheshire, Connecticut. Wikipedia+1
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Communications from University of Connecticut; a master’s in broadcast journalism from Quinnipiac University.
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Career Origins: She began working with ESPN in 2006 (digital/mobile), later moving into news, then establishing herself on various shows including College Football Live, Fantasy Football Now, NFL AM, NFL Fantasy Live. In 2015 she became the permanent host/moderator of First Take.
What’s the News: Leaving First Take & ESPN
The Announcement
On September 15, 2025, reliable reports (Sports Business Journal and others) revealed that Molly Qerim will be leaving ESPN at the end of 2025, including stepping down as host of First Take.
Her message, shared via Instagram Story, was heartfelt. She called hosting First Take one of the greatest honors of her career and expressed gratitude for lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories. She urged supporters to “stay tuned” for what comes next.
Although ESPN did offer her a new contract, she chose not to renew.
Timing & Context
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Working at First Take since 2015 as permanent host. Before that, she had intermittent fill-ins and roles.
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Her association with ESPN began much earlier (2006), spanning over nearly two decades in various capacities.
Why She’s Leaving
Molly hasn’t publicly laid out all of her reasons. Her statement indicates that she’s undergone “much reflection” and feels it’s time to “close this incredible chapter.”
There’s speculation that she wants to pursue other things—maybe projects outside of ESPN, possibly in different formats (streaming, podcasting, production, etc.), or perhaps more flexibility. Some reports hint that she turned down the contract because the terms didn’t align with her future goals. However, as of now, no public confirmation of what exactly those future endeavors will be.
How Will This Affect First Take & ESPN?
Her exit will leave a gap. She’s been a moderator/host who not only keeps the debate flowing smoothly but is also a recognizable “bridge” between panelists and audience. First Take will need a new host/moderator who can fill that role, especially alongside the likes of Stephen A. Smith. Athlon Sports+1
ESPN will likely have to manage viewer expectations. First Take is one of its more prominent debate shows, and Qerim’s presence has been integral to its brand. The network will need to ensure that the transition doesn’t alienate loyal viewers.
Molly Qerim’s Net Worth
Estimating net worth is always somewhat speculative, but here are the most credible figures and what contributes to her financial standing:
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Several sources estimate $2 million as her net worth.
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Other sources give a somewhat higher number — around $3 million as of early 2025.
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Some less credible publications claim $4 million, but these seem less substantiated.
Sources of Income
Her income comes from:
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ESPN salary, including First Take, and earlier roles. According to some reports, she earned around US$500,000 annually for First Take. That’s just one component of her income.
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Prior roles at NFL Network, CBS Sports Network, ESPN’s digital/mobile operations, etc.
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Endorsements, appearances, possibly side projects. Less public data is available about non-ESPN revenue.
Liabilities / Expenses
She has spoken publicly about her health—in particular, endometriosis—which may involve medical costs and also time off.
She also had a high-profile marriage (to former NBA player Jalen Rose), which ended in divorce. Personal life transitions like that may impact financials (lawyers, settlements, lifestyle adjustments).
Personal Life: Boyfriend, Relationships & Marriage
Molly Qerim has generally kept her personal life relatively private, but a number of public details are known.
Relationship with Jalen Rose
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Molly Qerim began dating Jalen Rose, former NBA player and later ESPN analyst, around 2016.
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They married on July 20, 2018.
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However, the marriage didn’t last indefinitely. In late 2021, Jalen Rose filed for divorce after they had been separated for about a year.
Current Relationship Status
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There’s no confirmed boyfriend or romantic relationship publicly known following the divorce. Rumors sometimes surface, but nothing substantiated in reliable sources as of mid-2025.
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Molly tends to maintain privacy around her personal life, especially regarding new relationships.
Other Aspects: Health & Personal Challenges
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In 2018, Molly publicly revealed she has severe endometriosis. She has spoken about how this affects her life and work.
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She is known not just for her on-air persona, but also for advocacy / speaking out when appropriate—e.g., regarding health, women in sports media.
Putting It All Together: What’s Next For Molly Qerim?
Given her decision to leave, her strong track record, and her public profile, here are possible paths forward:
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New Media Ventures: Podcasting, production, streaming, hosting shows outside traditional cable networks. Her experience gives her credibility to anchor or produce new content.
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Cross-Industry Roles: Perhaps voice‐overs, guest spots, commentary in other sports spaces, or perhaps non-sports related media.
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Advocacy / Personal Projects: Given her health struggles and profile, moving into more advocacy work or philanthropy is plausible.
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Contract or Brand Partnerships: With her name recognition, she could explore endorsements, sponsorships, or even starting something entrepreneurial.
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Temporary Break / Reflection Period: Sometimes stepping away from a major role helps in recharging. Her “stay tuned” suggests she wants to leave on her own terms, perhaps taking time before the next big move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Molly Qerim definitely leaving First Take and ESPN?
Yes. Per several credible reports from SBJ and others, she has decided not to renew her contract and will leave at end of 2025.
When did she start at ESPN and when did she become host of First Take?
She started in 2006 with ESPN’s digital/mobile platforms, then moved into news/anchor roles, eventually becoming permanent host of First Take in 2015.
How much is her net worth?
Estimates vary. $2 million (some sources), $3 million (others) as of early 2025. Her income from ESPN, her past work at other networks, and ancillary income contribute.
Who is Molly Qerim dating now?
As of 2025, there is no verified public relationship after her divorce from Jalen Rose, which was filed for in late 2021.
Conclusion
Molly Qerim’s departure from First Take and ESPN marks the end of a major chapter in her media career. With over 15 years in broadcasting, she has built up credibility, visibility, and a loyal fan base. Her net worth—while not enormous compared to top-tier celebrities—is solid, built on steady income and high-profile roles. Relationship-wise, past marriage to Jalen Rose ended in 2021, and she has kept her personal life private since then.
What comes next is unclear, but one thing seems certain: Molly Qerim is leaving the stage in First Take on her own terms, which suggests that her next moves will be deliberate and far-reaching. Whether she starts a new show, moves into production, or expands into advocacy, her fans will be watching closely.
