Fri, December 6, 2024
Thu, December 5, 2024
[ Thu, Dec 05th 2024 ] - New Idea
Maggie Tabberer dies aged 87
[ Thu, Dec 05th 2024 ] - Nieman Journalism Lab
Back to the bundle
Wed, December 4, 2024
Tue, December 3, 2024
[ Tue, Dec 03rd 2024 ] - Michael Jones
Influencers take on the news
Mon, December 2, 2024
Sun, December 1, 2024

ESPN, Stephen A. Smith negotiating historic deal nearing 6 years, $120 million: Sources


//media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. ic-deal-nearing-6-years-120-million-sources.html
Published in Media and Entertainment on by Michael Jones   Print publication without navigation

ESPN's initial offer was for $18 million per year. The two sides also discussed both five- and six-year options for the length of contract.

The article from The Athletic discusses ESPN's ongoing negotiations with Stephen A. Smith, one of their top on-air talents, as his contract is set to expire in July 2025. ESPN is keen on securing Smith's future with the network, recognizing his significant contribution to their programming, particularly on "First Take," where he has become a central figure. The negotiations are described as complex due to Smith's high market value, his desire for a substantial salary increase, and his interest in expanding his role beyond just sports commentary into broader media and entertainment. There's also mention of Smith's potential interest in exploring other opportunities, including his own production company, which adds another layer to the discussions. The article highlights the strategic importance of Smith to ESPN's brand and the delicate balance the network must strike to keep him satisfied while managing their budget constraints.

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5967493/2024/12/03/espn-stephen-a-smith-negotiations-contract/ ]

Publication Contributing Sources