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The initial headline that captured Sanson's attention read: “Stephen A. Smith and Skip Bayless to Appear on Air Together for First Time in Nine Years.” This announcement is not just significant due to the length of time since their last collaboration, but also because it reflects a shift in Smith's professional landscape. After Bayless left First Take, he launched Undisputed with Shannon Sharpe on FS1, while Smith continued to lead First Take with various guest appearances.
Now, with a freshly minted five-year contract worth over $100 million, Smith's new deal reportedly allows him greater creative freedom, including opportunities to pursue projects outside traditional ESPN boundaries. This context sheds light on why this reunion is happening now.