Stephen A. Smith Shares That Despite His Reported $12M Salary, He’s Still Not Making What He Should Be Due To His Race: Blacks Are Underpaid Compared To White Counterparts

Stephen A. Smith Shares That Despite His Reported $12M Salary, He’s Still Not Making What He Should Be Due To His Race: Blacks Are Underpaid Compared To White Counterparts

Stephen A. Smith is speaking out against his salary and letting it be known that despite his extensive resume, he’s still underpaid. 

According to reports, the ESPN sports television personality pulls in about $12 million a year, which is a direct result of earning an $8-million salary and a $4-million-per-year production contract. Recently, Stephen A. Smith appeared on ESPN to contrast the salaries Black people on television earn compared to what their white counterparts are making. The 55-year-old commentator explained:

“We are still Black in this country. We don’t trust this country in terms of meritocracy, always. We know the bottom line is that just like women are underpaid compared to male counterparts, Blacks are underpaid compared to white counterparts.”

The Bronx native added:

“So when you look at it from that perspective and of course, look at me, I’m not talking about me. Even though I got news for you, I am underpaid compared to some people on television and what they get paid but that’s a subject for another day. I ain’t apologizing for that to a d*mn soul. I am underpaid. Having said all of that it ain’t about me.”

Known for his dour delivery, Stephen A. Smith started his television career on CNN back in 1999. He is now a commentator on ESPN’s “First Take,” where he appears alongside Molly Qerim. The sports journalist also appears frequently as an NBA analyst on “SportsCenter.” Adding on to his resume, Stephen is an NBA analyst for ESPN’s “NBA Countdown” and “NBA broadcasts.” 

What are your thoughts on Stephen A. Smith claiming to be underpaid because he’s Black? Share it with us in the comments below.

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Authored by: Tsai-Ann Hill