Stephen A. Smith Shuts Down Rumors He's Dating His 'First Take' Co-Host

Sports journalist Stephen A. Smith has become a recognizable figure in media thanks in part to his decade-plus of co-hosting First Take on ESPN. Since 2015, he's shared co-hosting duties with fellow commentator Molly Qerim. And while they may have a friendly rapport on camera, it doesn't mean their relationship is much deeper behind the scenes.

On the April 10 episode of the show, guest analyst Chris "Mad Dog" Russo played with his co-hosts by asking which one of them said "I do" first, as they were both wearing white outfits that made it look like they were getting married. He was poking at rumors that Smith and Qerim are romantically involved in real life, but both Smith and Qerim quickly shot down the claims, with Qerim replying "Who said 'I don't' first?"

"No, there's nothing going on. You understand what I'm saying? America's been lying about that for years," Smith stated plainly.

"The funniest part is people actually believe it," Qerim added. "It's ridiculous."

When Russo joked that he's often asked about Smith and Qerim's relationship, Smith said that he takes it in stride. "Here's the upside to all of that: they know my taste. So therefore they know that it's a compliment to her. And obviously she has great taste as well, so I guess that's America's way of saying we both really, really look good," he quipped.

Smith went on to break down the compliment, saying "It does mean that First Take not only is the number-one show because of our content; we look the part."

For now, both Smith and Qerim's personal lives remain entirely separate and private.