Stephen A. Smith Addresses Rumors He ‘Dislikes’ Max Kellerman

When reports first surfaced Max Kellerman was going to be leaving First Take, many figured he was being pushed out by Stephen A. Smith. There were plenty of rumors that Kellerman was leaving due to his relationship with Stephen A. Smith. The overall gist was Smith doesn’t like Kellerman, their relationship has soured, and Stephen A. wanted him out.

ESPN Removing Co-host From ‘First Take’: Report https://t.co/l6BPXLFu2p

— SideAction (@SideActionHQ) August 19, 2021

Smith was able to address those pesky rumors on the “Morning Hustle” podcast.

SAS says most of the reports coming out are false.

Stephen A. Smith on Max Kellerman leaving ESPN's First Take: "Those reports of me disliking Max are an absolute lie. I actually got a lot of love for the guy.

"If he stays on the show, so be it. If he departs, it will be because they have other things they want him to do." pic.twitter.com/OLb5ec991f

— 👑 Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson (@ScoopB) August 19, 2021

Twitter reacted to the news:

Why didn’t he say , “if he stays on the show, GREAT”

Saying “so be it” makes it sound like he has to deal with him being around as opposed to welcoming the idea of max continuing to stay on.

— Lob Ties (@LobTies) August 19, 2021

“If he stays on the show so be it” is not a glowing endorsement 😂😂😂

— Cedric Shine (@cedricshine) August 19, 2021

so be it = good riddance

first take is done.

— Carlisle O'Reilly (@theoctopusjones) August 20, 2021

Honest question: do people care whether Stephen A. Smith likes Max Kellerman?

— Snark Twain (@ry_fish) August 19, 2021

Sounds like Stephen A. couldn’t care less if Max stays or goes.

We know Stephen A. cares more about himself than who he’s across from fake arguing.

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