Stephen A. Smith Unfazed by Epstein List Controversy
by Jaden Patel
Somewhere between hot takes and payroll statements, Stephen A. Smith has managed to turn a centuries old scandal into fresh controversy of his own. During a recent appearance on Chris Cuomo’s NewsNation program, the ESPN pundit famously shrugged off demands to reveal Jeffrey Epstein’s rumored client list, igniting a firestorm of public criticism. TMZ Sports caught up with Smith in New York City to get his immediate reaction to the backlash—and what we heard was pure, unfiltered Stephen A.
When asked why he seemed indifferent to exposing names tied to the disgraced financier’s alleged trafficking network, Smith did not mince words. “I don’t care, and the reason that I don’t care is because everybody has an opinion,” he said in his trademark bark. “Number two, I get paid for mine.” As the highest paid personality at ESPN, Smith pointed out that opinions are his livelihood, and if you want a different take, there’s always someone else on the airwaves.
The third pillar of his response was perhaps the most eyebrow raising. “It’s my opinion based on the facts that’s presented. I’m not getting personal, I’m not denigrating anybody,” Smith clarified. In other words, the public obsession with unverified names does not rank high on his agenda when he has sports highlights, celebrity feuds and hypothetical shirtless scenes on General Hospital to prepare for.
Smith’s stance may seem cold, but anyone who follows his career knows this is par for the course. He has never been one to back down from controversy. In fact, his most public spat came when LeBron James confronted him courtside over remarks about LeBron’s son Bronny. That incident only cemented Smith’s reputation for unwavering commentary, no matter who is offended or how loud the outrage gets online.
While critics argue that holding powerful people accountable should be a priority, Smith insists that viewers are free to chase whatever stories they please. Meanwhile, he will continue focusing on the topics that help him pay the bills. As for the Epstein list, Smith maintains it is just another rumor mill waiting for someone else to join the fray.
On a lighter note, TMZ Sports also quizzed Smith about his rumored shirtless scene on General Hospital. He admitted to some pre-shoot jitters, but insisted he would bring the same intensity he brings to every segment. Because whether it is breaking down a playoff game or speculating on daytime drama, Stephen A. Smith never does anything halfway.
Stay tuned for more hot takes and high stakes—in a world where outrage is the new currency, Stephen A. Smith is making sure he still cashes the checks.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, NewsNation
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
