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Typically, when such colossal contracts emerge in sports television, they are reserved for athletes rather than commentators. For instance, while Aikman and Buck's combined $33 million a year comes amid a $30 billion investment by ESPN in Monday Night Football, Smith's contract stands alone as a testament to his extraordinary influence and viewership numbers, particularly through his flagship show, First Take.
A Look Back: Stephen A's Career Journey
To fully appreciate Smith's current status, it’s essential to venture into the depths of his career and reflect on the turning points that have led him here. In 2009, amidst significant cultural events—think the rise of TV shows like Glee—Smith was rapidly emerging as a recognizable name in sports media after being hired by ESPN.