Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Stephen A. Smith Apologizes After Misnaming TexansChristian Kirk as Charlie Kirk on Live TV

He corrected the slip within seconds on First Take after a prompt from the show’s host.

Overview

  • While recapping Houston’s playoff win, Smith said, “We saw Charlie Kirk catch eight receptions for 144 yards,” then stopped to clarify he meant Christian Kirk.
  • First Take host Shae Peppler Cornette immediately corrected the name, prompting Smith’s on-air apology.
  • The brief exchange spread quickly across social media, with reactions ranging from jokes to criticism of the mix-up.
  • The error drew added attention because Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist, was assassinated at a Utah Valley University event in September 2025 and a suspect was arrested.
  • Christian Kirk recorded eight catches for 144 yards and a touchdown in the Texans’ 30–6 win over the Steelers, and Houston now visits the Patriots in the divisional round on Jan. 18.