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ESPN Radio Suspends Stephen A. Smith for Week
RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 29, 2014 |
Sports WEPN-FM (ESPN New York 98.7 FM)/New York suspend Stephen A. Smith for one week from hosting duties that also include and ESPN2's "First Take," reports Sports Illustrated media columnist Richard Deitsch. Smith came under fire for his comments on "First Take" last Friday over the Baltimore Ravens' Ray Rice suspension, when he reportedly suggested women should consider how they can provoke violence against themselves.
In a staff memo on Tuesday, ESPN President John Skipper said, "ESPN announced today that Stephen A. Smith will not appear on 'First Take' or ESPN Radio for the next week. He will return to ESPN next Wednesday. As many of you know, there has been substantial news coverage in the past few days related to comments Stephen A. made last Friday in the wake of the NFL's decision to suspend Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice for two games following charges of assaulting his then fiancee, now wife, a few months ago.
"We've said publicly and in this space that those remarks did not reflect our company's point of view, or our values. They certainly don't reflect my personal beliefs. We have been engaged in thoughtful discussion about appropriate next steps. Those conversations have involved a diverse group of women and men in our company. Our women's ERG has added to the conversation and going forward, I know they will help us continue constructive discussion on this and related issues.
"Stephen has called what took place 'the most egregious mistake' of his career. I believe his apology was sincere and that he and we have learned from what we've collectively experienced. I'm confident we will all move forward with a greater sense of enlightenment and perspective as the lasting impact of these last few days. I want to thank all those whose thoughts have contributed along the way."
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