In a highly anticipated move in the sports broadcasting world, Skip Bayless is officially reuniting with Stephen A. Smith on ESPN's beloved show, First Take. This reunion marks a significant moment for fans of the show, as Bayless will now make monthly appearances every last Friday and also join Smith on his radio show.

The Return of Skip Bayless

Skip Bayless, known for his provocative takes and spirited debates, spent over a decade on First Take before departing ESPN for FOX Sports in 2016. His time at FOX Sports saw him anchor the show Undisputed, but the landscape of sports media has shifted, and now Bayless is poised to return to his roots.

Smith announced Bayless's return on his radio show recently, confirming he will appear on the First Take platform monthly and every Friday on Sirius XM's Mad Dog Sports Radio. This arrangement offers a refreshing dynamic for viewers who have long followed both Smith and Bayless's on-screen chemistry.

Smith and Bayless: A Dynamic Duo

The chemistry between Stephen A. Smith and Skip Bayless has been a cornerstone of First Take since its inception. Their lively debates and varied perspectives have captivated audiences and generated countless memorable moments. Their one-off reunion episode in May sparked excitement among fans, and the announcement of Bayless's more regular role promises to inject new life into the program.

Both personalities are known for their strong opinions and willingness to challenge one another, keeping the discourse engaging and the viewers on their toes. Over the years, they have not only formulated arguments but also created entertainment that transcends typical sports discussions.

Bayless's Journey Post-ESPN

Following his departure from ESPN, Bayless spent eight years at FOX Sports, where he established himself as a prominent voice in sports media. However, the conclusion of his show Undisputed and the announcement of his exit from the network in 2024 marked the end of a chapter. Despite the changes, Bayless remained a popular figure in sports commentary, often making headlines for his strong opinions on various athletes and sports events.

Growth of First Take

ESPN's First Take has recently experienced a revival in viewership. According to reports, the show averaged 517,000 viewers from January to April 2025, representing a 5% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This surge in audience engagement illustrates the show's enduring appeal and the effectiveness of its dynamic duo of commentators.

However, ESPN has not been without its challenges. Earlier this summer, the program parted ways with several regulars, including Ryan Clark and Cam Newton, as part of a series of layoffs. The return of Bayless may be a strategic move to rejuvenate the show's offering and attract more viewers.

Upcoming Appearances

Bayless is poised to make his first official return to First Take since the announcement on Friday, September 25. Fans are looking forward to his insights on current sports topics and his spirited exchanges with Smith.

In addition to his First Take appearances, Bayless is also relaunching his podcast, Gridiron, in collaboration with former NFL star Aqib Talib. This new venture highlights Bayless's commitment to continuing his involvement in sports commentary across multiple platforms.

The Buzz in Sports Media

Bayless's reunion with Smith also coincides with another significant event: he recently filmed a reunion show with former colleague Shannon Sharpe for Sharpe's podcast, Club Shay Shay. Such developments indicate the ongoing evolution of sports media and how former stars are reuniting to build new projects while cherishing their past collaborations.

As more viewers tune in to catch Bayless and Smith's debates, it will be interesting to see how this revival impacts the broader sports conversation. With individual viewpoints supported by their shared history, fans can expect engaging discussions that not only entertain but also promote reflection on current sports issues.

The reunion of Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith is set against a backdrop of increased competition and changing dynamics within sports broadcasting. As the landscape continues to evolve, their return to First Take could serve as a touchpoint for both old fans and new viewers looking for bold sports commentary.