Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Stephen A. Smith
Public opinion and media debates around Stephen A. Smith—discover key moments of controversy.
Stephen A. Smith is a prominent American sports television and radio personality, known for his outspoken opinions and analysis. He is a regular NBA analyst on ESPN's SportsCenter and NBA Countdown. He also hosts The Stephen A. Smith Show on ESPN Radio and is a commentator on First Take. Furthermore, he is a columnist for ESPN and The Philadelphia Inquirer, solidifying his presence across multiple media platforms within the sports world.
July 25, 2014: Controversial remarks on domestic abuse
On July 25, 2014, Stephen A. Smith made controversial remarks on First Take regarding women provoking domestic abuse, in relation to the Ray Rice situation.
July 29, 2014: Suspension by ESPN
On July 29, 2014, Stephen A. Smith was suspended by ESPN for a week following his controversial remarks about domestic abuse.
2014: DeSean Jackson release
In 2014, Stephen A. Smith makes comments on Chip Kelly's roster moves regarding the 2014 release of wide receiver DeSean Jackson.
March 9, 2015: Comments on Chip Kelly and Eagles' roster moves
On March 9, 2015, Stephen A. Smith made comments on First Take suggesting that Chip Kelly's roster moves with the Philadelphia Eagles might be racially motivated, causing controversy.
May 8, 2015: McCoy's comments on Kelly
On May 8, 2015, LeSean McCoy admitted in an interview with ESPN The Magazine that he believed some of Chip Kelly's roster moves were racially motivated.
June 11, 2015: Criticism for comment about female soccer players
On June 11, 2015, Stephen A. Smith received criticism for a comment he made about female soccer players during the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, which was perceived as sexist.
August 2017: Zach Randolph's Arrest
In August 2017, NBA player Zach Randolph was arrested for possession of marijuana with the intent to sell, leading to criticism from Stephen A. Smith.
2018: J. R. Smith's Blunder and "Stay off the weed!"
In 2018, after J. R. Smith's mistake in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Stephen A. Smith jokingly delivered his "Stay off the weed!" line at a live First Take taping, implying the blunder was due to being high. The outburst was well-received by the audience.
May 2019: D'Angelo Russell's Citation
In May 2019, D'Angelo Russell was cited for marijuana possession at LaGuardia Airport, leading to criticism from Stephen A. Smith.
June 2021: Alex Caruso's Arrest
In June 2021, Alex Caruso was arrested in Texas for marijuana possession, leading to criticism from Stephen A. Smith.
2024: Critical remarks on both political parties
In 2024, Stephen A. Smith made critical remarks on both the Republican and Democratic parties, including expressing disappointment in Kamala Harris's performance after voting for her.
