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In an unlikely turn of events, it looks like the gang is getting back together, at least for a limited time.
Stephen A. Smith and former ESPN partner Skip Bayless are reuniting for an episode of Bayless’s podcast, according to Front Office Sports.
“The Skip Bayless Show” episode featuring Smith has reportedly already been taped and is set to be released early next week.
Smith and Bayless worked for over a decade together at ESPN, most notably as “First Take” talking heads from 2012-16.
Bayless ultimately left the show and the network as a whole in 2016, opting for a role on FS1’s “Undisputed.”
At the end of last year, Smith talked about his relationship with Bayless.
Smith expressed on the “Talk With Flee” podcast in December 2024 that the lack of a relationship with Skip Bayless is not due to any negative feelings on his part. He mentioned attempting to reach out to Bayless multiple times, only to never receive a call back in return.
“To me, if you that kind of person, that doesn’t make you bad, it just means that we can’t vibe. Because I’m gonna answer a call.”
Despite their long-standing history, Smith was dismayed by the lack of response from Bayless. He highlighted his disappointment, emphasizing that even though they may have differing opinions at times, he still harbored love for Bayless. However, the issue of not returning phone calls was something that did not sit well with Smith.
Following their fallout nine years ago, Smith has continued to be a prominent figure in the sports media industry. Recently, he secured a lucrative five-year, $100 million deal with ESPN, further solidifying his presence in the industry.
Bayless left FS1 in August 2024.