Shae Cornette: Rise to First Take Host, ESPN Career, & Net Worth — Shae Cornette, ESPN's new First Take host

Shae Cornette: Stepping into the Spotlight on ESPN’s First Take

When ESPN announced Shae Cornette as the new host of its flagship debate program, First Take, the network was not just filling a vacancy; it was betting on proven authority and meticulous preparation.

Stepping into the shoes of a predecessor who anchored the show for nearly a decade is one of the highest-pressure roles in sports media. Cornette’s official debut on Monday, November 3, marks the peak of a career built on navigating the often-volatile landscape of broadcasting.

For fans and media observers alike, this transition is a calculated move designed to keep the show fresh and competitive. Cornette brings a philosophy perfectly suited to the industry’s high demands. As she noted in an interview about her professional journey, “This business is hard and can be a roller coaster, you just have to enjoy the ride”.

That acceptance of the unpredictable, coupled with relentless professionalism, is the foundation of her success. She enters the role not as an untested talent, but as a seasoned ESPN veteran ready to bring new energy to the debate desk.

But who is Shae Cornette beyond the headlines? A Chicago native with a passion for storytelling, she’s climbed from local reporting to national stardom while building a family life that’s as inspiring as her career.

At 39, she’s not just a host—she’s a mom, philanthropist, and trailblazer who’s turned personal challenges into fuel for success. Let’s dive into her journey, from her early days to this game-changing moment.

Shae Cornette: New First Take Host, ESPN Career — Shae Cornette, ESPN’s new First Take host

Shae Cornette: Professional Snapshot

Role	Affiliation	Key Milestone
Host, First Take	ESPN	Debuts November 3
Anchor, SportsCenter	ESPN	Longstanding anchor since 2020
Education	Indiana University	Degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Kinesiology
Family Life	Married to Jordan Cornette	Mother of two shared children and a stepson
Philanthropy	Co-Founder	“Fashion’s Fight Against Cancer” (raised over $200k)

The Anatomy of an Ideal Host: Poise, Preparation, and Passion

Cornette’s selection was heavily validated by the top voices at ESPN, confirming that her style is an ideal fit for the spirited, often intense, nature of First Take.

David Roberts, ESPN’s Executive Vice President of Sports News and Entertainment, specifically cited her credentials, highlighting her professional diligence.

Roberts praised Cornette for being “meticulous in her preparation” and for her “unique ability to keep lively debate engaging and on point”. This technical praise is significant.

Unlike hosts who simply introduce topics, Cornette’s background and preparation allow her to actively steer complex conversations, ensuring that high-profile personalities like Stephen A. Smith stay focused while maintaining the necessary journalistic integrity of the segment.

This emphasis on guiding the conversation, rather than just facilitating it, suggests a subtle evolution in the moderator’s role on the show.

Endorsed by the Star

The highest seal of approval came from Stephen A. Smith himself, the featured commentator and executive producer of the show. Smith recognized the difficulty of the assignment, stating that hosting First Take demands “confidence, toughness, and real sports insight”.

Stephen A. Smith affirmed that Cornette possesses all these traits and more. He had observed her performance extensively during her time as a fill-in host, noting that she could “command the desk with poise and passion every time she’s hosted”.

This direct endorsement confirmed that the crucial internal chemistry needed to maintain the show’s dynamic had been achieved. Smith’s public support, calling her “the real deal,” effectively signals her immediate authority and competence to the highly scrutinized audience.

The SportsCenter Crucible

Before stepping into the debate ring, Cornette spent several years as a “longstanding anchor on SportsCenter” after joining the network in 2020. This period served as the essential training ground for her current assignment.

Hosting a dynamic news program like SportsCenter requires rapid assimilation of information, swift transitions, and the ability to handle live, unpredictable broadcasts.

Cornette’s experience anchoring those shows, combined with previous college football coverage, equipped her to navigate the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of First Take. She officially concluded her duties at SportsCenter before her planned November 3 debut on First Take.

The Chicago Hustle: Forging Resilience in Local Media

Cornette’s national prominence is the result of years spent honing her craft in local media, a period characterized by hard work and pivotal opportunities in the Midwest. Her educational foundation was laid at Indiana University, where she earned dual degrees in broadcast journalism and kinesiology.

The combination of broadcast journalism and kinesiology, the study of body movement, may seem disparate, but it speaks volumes about her professional approach.

Kinesiology requires discipline, an understanding of performance mechanics, and resilience—qualities essential for enduring the pressures of live broadcasting and the demanding schedules of media work.

The Local Launchpad

After graduation, Cornette built her portfolio at the Big Ten Network and made a significant impact with The Chicago Huddle on ABC 7.

Working in Chicago, one of the largest and most passionate sports markets in the nation, gave her invaluable experience covering major teams, including the Chicago Bears, and hosting numerous pre- and post-game shows.

These early experiences allowed her to develop the foundational sports knowledge and confident command of conversation that executives later praised.

A pivotal moment in her career progression involved a familial decision. Cornette initially joined the national ESPN umbrella through an unconventional route in 2020. When her husband, Jordan Cornette, received an opportunity at the company’s headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut, Shae remained in Chicago briefly, taking over his role at ESPN 1000 radio.

She skillfully leveraged this immediate, high-profile opening to demonstrate her national readiness before eventually joining him in Connecticut to work for ESPN radio nationally. This scenario illustrates the shared ambition and flexibility required for couples navigating the sports media world, where professional advancements often demand personal relocations. Jordan’s move created the perfect entry point for Shae to solidify her presence within the ESPN ecosystem.

Beyond the Teleprompter: Moments That Humanize

A host’s effectiveness is not just defined by their performance on air, but by the character they demonstrate off-screen. Cornette’s life includes significant humanitarian work and moments of relatable authenticity that underscore her integrity and build public trust.

A Dedication to Pediatric Cancer Research

Away from the studio lights, Cornette is a committed philanthropist. She co-founded the successful fundraising event, “Fashion’s Fight Against Cancer,” which has raised more than $200,000 for pediatric cancer research. This long-term dedication to a charitable cause outside of her day job provides tangible evidence of her ethics and commitment to community.

The Rival Jersey Incident

One of the most humanizing moments of Cornette’s career involved a highly relatable challenge that many sports fans face: balancing professional duty with deep-seated fandom.

During an ESPN segment covering the Green Bay Packers training camp, Cornette—a known Chicago Bears fan—was tasked with wearing the rival Packers jersey.

The move sparked immediate reaction from passionate Chicago fans online. Cornette handled the situation with humor and authenticity, issuing a public apology to her fellow Bears fans: “I’m sorry, Bears fans—this was the hand I was dealt while covering the Packers”.

This incident provided a moment of connection with the audience, showcasing the tension between a journalist’s required neutrality and their personal, deeply held team loyalty. It was a clear reminder that even polished, national broadcasters remain passionate sports enthusiasts themselves.

Roots in the Windy City: Building a Foundation in Sports Media

Shae Peppler Cornette was born on August 1, 1986, in Chicago, Illinois, making her a Leo with that classic fiery drive. Growing up in a city obsessed with sports, she caught the bug early.

Her nationality is American, and she proudly embraces her White ethnicity, often crediting her Midwestern roots for her down-to-earth vibe.

She headed to Indiana University, where she double-majored in broadcast journalism and kinesiology. This combo wasn’t random—it blended her love for media with an understanding of athletes’ physical worlds. “I always knew I wanted to tell stories that matter,” she once shared in an interview, reflecting on how her education shaped her approach to sports reporting.

Fresh out of college, Cornette dove into the industry. She started at the Big Ten Network, covering college games with enthusiasm. Then came gigs like The Chicago Huddle on ABC 7, where she honed her on-camera skills.

By her mid-20s, she was the go-to Bears reporter for Fox 32, anchoring newscasts and hosting pre- and post-game shows. She even led her own weekly program, Bears Unleashed, becoming a familiar face in Chicago sports circles.

These early roles weren’t glamorous. Long hours, tough weather at games, and the pressure of live TV tested her. But they built her resilience. As she told a local outlet, “Chicago taught me to hustle—it’s where I learned to connect with fans on a real level.”

Rising Through the Ranks at ESPN

Cornette’s big break came in 2020 when she joined ESPN. She quickly became a staple on SportsCenter, delivering highlights with poise and insight.

Her radio work shone too—co-hosting Kap & Co. on ESPN 1000 and later national shows on SiriusXM.

In a groundbreaking move, she and her husband Jordan hosted The Cornettes, making them the first married couple on a national ESPN radio program.

Her versatility stands out. From college football sideline reporting to studio debates, she’s covered it all. Notable milestones include her work on digital shows during major events and filling in on NFL Live.

By 2025, her net worth sits around $1 million, with an estimated salary between $50,000 and $120,000—solid figures for someone who’s earned every step.

What sets her apart? Peers like Stephen A. Smith praise her preparation. “Shae is meticulous… she keeps the debate engaging and on point,” he said in a recent statement. Compared to hosts like Qerim, Cornette brings a reporter’s edge—less polish, more raw passion. It’s this authenticity that landed her the First Take gig, a show known for heated exchanges and big personalities.

But success hasn’t come without hurdles. The sports media world is cutthroat, with constant scrutiny on appearance and performance. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches and weighing about 120 pounds, Cornette has faced the industry’s obsession with looks—think searches for her “measurements” or “outfits,” like her stylish training camp ensembles. She brushes it off, focusing on substance. “It’s about the work, not the wardrobe,” she’s quipped.

A Power Couple’s Love Story: Family First

Behind the bright lights, Cornette’s personal life adds depth to her story. She married Jordan Cornette, a former Notre Dame basketball player turned ESPN analyst, in June 2019. He successfully transitioned into sports analysis and currently works as a college basketball analyst for NBC. Their romance started as friendship in Chicago’s media scene. “We were best friends first—the bones were good,” Jordan recalls, quoting a country song.

Their early marriage hit turbulence. Just a month before the wedding, Jordan got an ESPN offer in Connecticut, forcing a long-distance start. “It was challenging—newlyweds apart, sorting life from afar,” Shae shared. Yet, it strengthened them. They bunkered down during the pandemic, adopting their English cream golden retriever, Kobe (named after the late NBA legend), and welcoming kids.

Today, they have three children: stepson Carter (now a teen swimmer living in Florida), son Joey (around 4, a car-obsessed bundle of energy), and daughter Saylor (about 3, a “warrior princess” who loves music class). Family life in Connecticut offers balance—beach walks, donut runs, and prioritizing time over endless work. “Being away from our Midwest families brought us closer—we rely on each other for everything,” Shae says.

Shae Cornette with husband Jordan and their family, capturing their close-knit bond.

Tragedy has touched them too. They met during Shae’s sister’s battle with Stage 4 cancer, and later, Jordan lost his brother Joel. These losses inspired Shae’s philanthropy—she co-founded “Fashion’s Fight Against Cancer,” raising over $200,000 for pediatric research. It’s a reminder: amid the glamour, life’s real struggles shape who she is.

Has she been pregnant recently? Rumors swirl, but as of 2025, she’s focused on her growing family and new role. How many kids? Three, blending step-parenting with hands-on mom duties.

Challenges and Triumphs: The Human Side of Stardom

Sports media isn’t easy, especially for women. Cornette has navigated the “roller coaster” of ups and downs, from grueling schedules to public judgment. “This business is hard—you have to enjoy the ride,” she advises. Working with her husband added layers—fun on radio, but tough balancing home and office. They learned to “turn it off,” escaping into shows like Love Is Blind or mystery docs.

Her achievements shine brighter against these odds. From Bears reporting to First Take, she’s proven women can lead debates with authority. No major awards listed, but her impact is clear: inspiring young journalists, especially moms, to chase dreams without compromise.

What about societal contributions? Beyond cancer fundraising, she humanizes sports media, showing vulnerability. In a male-dominated field, she’s a role model, much like Charly Arnolt or Mina Kimes, but with her own Midwestern flair.

Economic Profile and Media Future

In the world of high-profile sports media, a host’s role is defined by their influence, which is often reflected in their compensation and career trajectory. While Cornette’s specific salary for hosting First Take is not publicly disclosed, her ascent to one of the most prominent roles at ESPN signifies a high economic valuation.

Estimates of her net worth generally range between $1 million and $3 million, a figure poised to rise significantly given the prestige and exposure of her new assignment. This figure stands in the context of co-host Stephen A. Smith, who is one of ESPN’s highest-paid talents, with an estimated salary reaching $20 million annually.

Navigating the Scrutiny of Public Life

A host’s visibility inevitably leads to intense public scrutiny, often focused on private or superficial details. Searches related to “shae cornette height” and “shae cornette measurements” are common, reflecting the persistent curiosity faced by women in sports media.

It must be noted that Shae Cornette and ESPN have not released official public statements regarding her specific height, weight, or personal measurements.

Maintaining this privacy is paramount, and responsible reporting acknowledges the high public interest without resorting to speculation or using unverified data, thereby upholding journalistic integrity and trust.

A Comparative Look at the Debate Desk

Cornette’s professionalism and preparation were deemed a natural fit for First Take. Her style offers a calculated contrast to her predecessor. While the former host often played the role of a neutral facilitator, Cornette’s background and executive descriptions suggest a host who is prepared to engage directly with informed analytical opinions, moving beyond simple mediation to ensuring the debate remains grounded in accurate sports insight.

Her success on First Take is predicted to be a cornerstone of her legacy at ESPN. Having demonstrated versatility across radio, SportsCenter, college football coverage, and now a daily debate show, Cornette is exceptionally positioned to become a major fixture in the network’s biggest event coverage, potentially expanding her role into anchoring major studio programs for the NFL, NBA, or college sports championships in the future.

Looking Ahead: Legacy in the Making

As Cornette settles into First Take, the future looks bright. Predictions? She’ll bring fresh perspectives, perhaps softening edges with her relatable style while keeping debates fiery. At 39, she’s hitting her prime—expect more radio, maybe a podcast, or even book on balancing career and family.

Her story reminds us: success isn’t linear. From Chicago hustles to Connecticut family life, Shae Cornette embodies resilience. What’s next for this ESPN star? Only time will tell, but one thing’s sure—she’s just getting started.

She arrives at the debate desk not merely as a replacement, but as an analyst and anchor whose meticulous preparation and ability to control high-energy conversations were explicitly recognized by the network’s top brass and star talent.

Her commitment to charity and her genuine connection to sports fandom, as demonstrated by her humorous handling of the rival jersey incident, solidify her as a grounded and trusted figure in the media landscape. Shae Cornette is poised to define the tone of daytime sports debate for the next generation of viewers.

Given her commitment to meticulous preparation and her ability to keep debates engaging, how do you foresee Shae Cornette changing the dynamic of First Take? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Shae Cornette: Biography Summary

Shae Cornette is an acclaimed ESPN television host known for her work on SportsCenter and her high-profile ascension to host of First Take in November 2025. A graduate of Indiana University in Broadcast Journalism and Kinesiology , Cornette built her career through sports radio and local TV in Chicago before joining ESPN nationally in 2020.

She is married to NBC analyst Jordan Cornette, with whom she shares two children, Joey and Saylor, and is a co-founder of the successful charity, “Fashion’s Fight Against Cancer,” which has raised over $200,000. Her career embodies the mantra that success in media is a “roller coaster” that requires constant resilience and meticulous preparation.