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Stephen A. Smith Gets Honest About Leaving ESPN

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated May 6, 2025 9:15 PM ET

Stephen A. Smith doesn't believe in taking days off. When he's not on ESPN's "First Take" ranting about the NBA, he's either talking about politics or expanding his portfolio as an actor.

Smith has made a handful of appearances on soap opera "General Hospital. He plays "Brick," a character who serves as a surveillance and tech expert for the Corinthos family. That's not the only prominent TV show that has show interest in his acting skills.

On Thursday, Smith will guest star on "Law & Order." He'll play a sports agent named Ted Hunter.

During an interview with the New York Post on Tuesday, Smith opened up about his experience on "Law & Order." He also revealed if he'd consider leaving ESPN to become a full-time actor.

Despite having long-term job security at ESPN, Smith isn't against the idea of him landing more acting gigs.

"It would have to be the right opportunity, of course," Smith told the New York Post. "I mean, I have a day job that pays me pretty well, so I don’t really need the work."

However, Smith wouldn't just jump at a role in any movie or TV show. It would have to be something he's passionate about.

"If I’m gonna do it, it has to be the kind of [role] that I want," Smith continued. "I want to be in the movies. I want to be on primetime television. I want to be on epic shows like Law & Order, I want to work with great actors and great directors, and stuff like that. It’s certainly something that I aspire to do. There’s no doubt about that."

Smith recently signed a five-year, $100 million extension with ESPN. It'd be wild for him to leave now.

There could come a day where Smith leaves the sports media industry behind for good. We just don't expect that to be anytime soon.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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