As one of the most talked-about figures, Stephen A. Smith has built a significant fortune. Our team analyzed the latest data to provide a clear picture of their income.
What is Stephen A. Smith's Net Worth and Salary?
Smith transitioned to television in the early 2000s, appearing on various ESPN programs before becoming a permanent fixture on "First Take" in 2012. His passionate debates withSkip Bayless, and laterMax Kellermanand others, helped transform the show into a ratings powerhouse.
In addition to his ESPN work, Smith has ventured into acting with cameos in soap operas and films. He authored the book "Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes" in 2023.
Beyond "First Take," Smith has hosted "The Stephen A. Smith Show" on ESPN Radio and appears regularly on "SportsCenter" and "NBA Countdown." His catchphrases and animated delivery style have made him a cultural phenomenon and frequent subject of viral clips and memes.
In June 2024 it was revealed thatStephen A. Smith had turned down a $90 million contract offerfrom ESPN. The offer, $90 million over five years, worked out to an average annual salary of $18 million. He reportedly turned down the deal because he was holding out for an offer that would pay him $25 million per year.
Stephen A. Smith is one of sports media's most recognizable and influential personalities. Beginning his career as a print journalist for the New York Daily News in 1993, he later wrote for The Philadelphia Inquirer, covering the Philadelphia 76ers as their NBA columnist.
For several years up to April 2019, Stephen A. Smith's salary was $5 million per year. In mid-April 2019, he signed a new deal with ESPN that paid $8 million per year, making himthe highest-paid ESPN personalityand the highest-paid sportscaster in the world overall. He lost the title of highest-paid sportscaster in March 2020 whenTony Romosigned a contract with CBS that paid him $17 million per year. He regained the title in March 2025 when he signed a deal that pays $20 million per year with ESPN.
Stephen A. Smith is an American sports media figure who has a net worth of $45 million. Stephen A. Smith's salary is $20 million per year.
Known for his bold opinions, theatrical delivery, and willingness to engage in heated debates, Smith has become one of sports media's highest-paid commentators and most influential voices.
In summary, the total wealth of Stephen A. Smith reflects strategic moves.
Disclaimer: All net worth figures are estimates based on public data.
