In the world of sports media, few personalities command attention and provoke discussion like Stephen A. Smith. Recently, Smith found himself surrounded by controversy once again, this time reigniting a debate with former co-host Max Kellerman. During an episode of his show Straight Shooter With Stephen A., Smith directly addressed Kellerman’s remarks made on The Bill Simmons Podcast.

Kellerman had suggested that Smith was uncomfortable debating him on ESPN’s First Take, which they co-hosted from 2016 to 2021. This isn’t the first time Smith and Kellerman’s on-air relationship has been under public scrutiny. However, this particular back-and-forth has brought new details to light.

Smith, who usually refrains from discussing Kellerman’s exit in detail, responded with a cautionary message, hinting at the unseen drama behind their separation. “And he took it someplace that all I want to say is are you really sure you want to go there?” Smith said. He stressed that despite their professional disagreements, there was no personal animosity against Kellerman.

The show’s dynamic was complex. Smith pointed out that their chemistry as hosts had declined, a fact he had communicated to ESPN executives well before Kellerman’s departure. “We worked for 5 years together, 2016 to 2021. And yes, I didn’t think we worked [well] together any longer,” Smith elaborated.

The crux of Smith’s argument rested on the identity and expectations of First Take. The show, known for its fiery debates from the Smith and Skip Bayless era, demanded a particular kind of chemistry that Smith felt was lacking with Kellerman. “The top ratings were handed to us because of what Skip and I were doing. So, the audience has an expectation for that show,” Smith explained.

Adding to the complexity is Marcellus Wiley, yet another personality in this unfolding story. Wiley accused Smith of removing Kellerman due to insecurity—allegations Smith robustly denied, chalking them up to Wiley’s personal connection with Kellerman.

Smith emphasized that Wiley’s perspective was biased. “Oh, by the way, Marcellus, speaking about what you didn’t like. Respectfully, let me tell you what I don’t like about you since you are also my former colleague at ESPN,” Smith shot back, questioning Wiley’s one-sided view and neglect of his side of the story.

The debate raised another interesting dimension: the difference between a debate show and a radio show. Smith pointed out that the responsibilities and expectations between these two formats are vastly different, implicitly dismissing Wiley’s claims about the intellect-gap between Smith and Kellerman.

The drama continues to ripple across sports media, each participant offering their own version of events. As of now, Smith maintains his stance, urging all critics to consider the multifactorial nature of their professional parting. As fascinating as the unfolding drama is, it’s a reminder of the complexities and pressures in creating engaging sports content and personalities capable of carrying the show.