Smith Named BFOA Broadcast Personality of the Year

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 3:01pm CT

Stephen A. Smith

Stephen A. Smith will receive the inaugural "Broadcast Personality of the Year Award" from the Broadcasters Foundation of America during the organization's annual gala on Monday, March 9, at the Plaza Hotel.

The BFOA Gala is the foundation's primary fundraiser, supporting broadcasters facing financial hardship due to illness or disaster. Smith becomes the first recipient of the newly created honor, recognizing his impact across television, radio, journalism, and digital media.

Known for his outspoken commentary and analysis, Smith is the featured commentator and executive producer of ESPN's First Take. He also hosts Straight Shooter, a live political and current affairs program on SiriusXM, marking a significant expansion beyond his longtime focus on sports.

"We are excited to introduce the Broadcast Personality of the Year Award, and there is no one better to be our first honoree than Stephen," said BFOA President Tim McCarthy. "There are very few in broadcasting who are as authentic. His work ethic and candid delivery make him a personality you must pay attention to on any platform."

Smith, a native of Hollis, Queens, began his media career as a high school reporter for the New York Daily News before holding several roles at the Philadelphia Inquirer, including general sports columnist. He later transitioned into radio, starting at 1050 ESPN in New York, and went on to host national programs on ESPN Radio and Fox Sports Radio, along with local shows in New York and Los Angeles.

"I am honored to receive this recognition from Tim and the Broadcasters Foundation," Smith said. "The foundation is a unique charity that helps support those in our industry who are facing the most daunting circumstances, and I am proud to be part of this important fundraising effort."

As previously announced, the BFOA Gala will also honor VERSANT CEO and former NBCUniversal Media Group chair Mark Lazarus with the Golden Mic Award, and Judge Judy Sheindlin with the Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award.