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Stephen A. Smith Nears $40 Million a Year as He Debuts Weekly Political Show on SiriusXM

His weekly SiriusXM program signals a pivot into national politics commentary, with new contracts and digital income pushing his annual pay toward $40 million.

NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith is gearing up to dive headfirst into political commentating with a new $36 million, three-year contract with SiriusXM, according to The Athletic.
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Dec 21, 2024; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Stephen A. Smith , American sports television personality, waves to the crowd while walking the field before the game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images.

Overview

  • Smith is under a reported five-year, $105 million ESPN contract that eases some network appearance requirements to allow outside projects.
  • He signed a three-year, $36 million SiriusXM deal and launched Straight Shooter with Stephen A. on the POTUS channel, airing Wednesdays from 6–8 p.m. ET.
  • Between ESPN and SiriusXM, his base compensation is about $33 million per year, according to reporting by The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand.
  • Estimates that include revenue from his YouTube channel and podcast place his total annual earnings near $40 million.
  • Coverage notes ongoing speculation about a future run for office, but Smith has not announced any candidacy and says his show will challenge both parties.