Max Kellerman finally speaks out about the drama with Stephen A. Smith on 'First Take' and his departure from ESPN

Max Kellerman has finally addressed the long-standing tension with Stephen A. Smith, which led to his departure from ESPNs First Take. During a recent interview on The Bill Simmons Podcast, Kellerman shared his most detailed explanation yet, reflecting on the issues with Smith and his career after leaving the network.

After keeping a low profile following his exit from ESPN, Kellerman took the opportunity to discuss the aftermath of his departure from First Take and his future plans. He explained that the core problem with Smith was a fundamental clash in their professional approach. "If you're doing a debate show and you're competitive, why would you want me as a partner? Thats problematic," Kellerman explained, addressing the dynamics of his relationship with Smith.

He further elaborated, humorously referencing the intensity of their interactions, saying, Do you want to go 15 rounds every day with 'Muhammad Kellerman?' Kellerman admitted that such a setup was exhausting and ultimately detrimental to their partnership.

In addition to the incompatibility in their working styles, Kellerman suggested that Smiths ambition to dominate First Take as the sole star played a significant role in their split. "From my point of view, I can tell you that if youre aiming to be seen as a solo act, theres financial motivation in that," Kellerman explained. "Being perceived as a singular star can get you paid in ways that being part of a duo cant."

Former ESPN colleague, Marcellus Wiley, who worked with Kellerman on SportsNation, also weighed in on the situation. Wiley, who has been critical of Smith, shared similar sentiments on a recent segment of his YouTube channel, Hydration Situation. Max is so sharp that if you're not solid in your arguments, youll feel the pressure, Wiley said, reflecting on the challenges of working with Kellerman.

Wiley, who also collaborated with Smith, added that Smiths discomfort with Kellermans intellectual approach might have fueled the fallout. "Max is different from most in the industry. Hes analytical, and that can clash with egos," Wiley said.

Stephen A. Smith has publicly acknowledged pushing ESPN to remove Kellerman from First Take in 2021, signaling the end of their often contentious partnership. Following his departure from the show, Kellerman moved to Keyshawn, JWill & Max, a program that was eventually canceled in 2023, marking the end of his time at ESPN.

For more insights, watch Max Kellermans appearance on The Bill Simmons Podcast below.