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Michelle Obama Shares Blunt Opinion Of ESPN's Stephen A. Smith

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Aug 1, 2025 10:29 AM ET

Stephen A. Smith has become such a polarizing TV personality that even Michelle Obama is talking about him.

When it comes to expanding the brand, Smith is truly incredible at it. If he's not on ESPN's "First Take" ranting about the Dallas Cowboys, he's on NewsNation teasing a potential run in the 2028 election. We also can't forget that he's going to be featured on SiriusXM Radio this fall.

Smith will host a daily show on Mad Dog Sports Radio as well as a "weekly current events, pop culture and social commentary-focused" show on a separate SiriusXM channel. This is part of his multi-year agreement with SiriusXM.

While we can't deny Smith's rise to stardom, it appears he has rubbed some people the wrong way. The same can be said for ESPN and its current programming.

During the latest episode of the "IMO" podcast, Michelle Obama shared her thoughts on the current state of ESPN's product. Let's just say she didn't hold back her true feelings.

"It’s all a sociological study. They think that sports is better reality TV, I’m like, ‘it’s the same thing.' If I listen to ESPN for an hour, it’s like watching the ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ you know?" Obama said, via Fox News Digital. "It’s the same drama, and they’re yelling at each other, and they don’t get along, you know?"

The former first lady then suggested that Smith is just like most reality TV stars.

"I mean, Stephen A. Smith, he’s just like every other. So that’s why I’m like, ‘what’s the difference?’ It’s just, you know, it’s just sociological drama. I mean, the fact that people over seasons of working still can’t get along. They still have the same arguments, you know, and it’s not just women. But this happens in sports, too. I find it fascinating."

There are plenty of sports fans who would agree with Obama's assessment, especially those who despise debate shows.

As for Smith, it wouldn't shock us if he fires back at Obama later this Friday.

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

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