Stephen A. Smith Awkwardly Addresses Rumor That He and ESPN First Take Host Molly Qerim Are Dating

Stephen A. Smith took a moment during Wednesday’s episode of First Take to give a bizarre explanation for the dating rumors between he and host Molly Qerim.

At the beginning of the show, Chris “Mad Dog” Russo joked that the two of them had just gotten married because they were both dressed in white. Smith acknowledged that while he and Qerim dressed well, Russo’s comment was simply a joke.

“No, there’s nothing going on!” Smith said. “You understand what I’m saying? America’s been lying about that for a couple years.”

Qerim added that people believe genuinely believe the rumor.

“Oh, they sure do,” Russo responded. “I get asked all the time, ‘How’s the famous couple doing?'”

That’s when Smith found a way to compliment himself with his unique interpretation of the situation.

“But here’s the upside to all of that,” Smith said. “They know my taste, so therefore they know that’s a compliment to her; and obviously, she has great taste, as well. So I guess that’s America’s way of saying we both really, really look good.”

Russo, stunned at Smith’s audacity, turned to Qerim with a confused look.

“But,” Smith continued, “it does mean that First Take not only is the no. 1 show because of our content. We look the part.”

Watch above via ESPN