Chris Russo, a prominent radio host, recently weighed in on the drama surrounding Stephen A. Smith’s new show on SiriusXM. In an interview with The New York Times, Russo expressed sympathy for his colleagues Michelle Beadle and Cody Decker, whose show "Beadle and Decker" is being replaced by one of Smith’s new programs.
Industry Changes
Russo attributed the move to the competitive nature of sports radio, stating that "changes happen" in this industry. He emphasized that this is a common occurrence in their field:
"I think it’s just part of what we do," Russo said during his radio show on WFAN. "Changes happen."
Insights on Smith’s Departure
Russo revealed that he had known about Smith’s potential departure from ESPN for several months prior to its announcement. He noted that the lack of a video component was initially seen as a reason why it wouldn’t work out:
"It was always going to be tough because there wasn’t going to be any video component," Russo said.
Criticism of SiriusXM’s Handling
The way SiriusXM informed Beadle and Decker about their canceled program has also drawn criticism from Russo. He stated that giving them time to say goodbye would only lead to negative reactions from listeners:
"You can’t give them time; you can’t let them say goodbye. It would have been worse if they had given them some time."
Russo did not elaborate further on his views regarding the situation or express any opinions about Stephen A. Smith himself during his comments on his radio show.
Stephen A. Smith’s Transition
Smith announced earlier this month that he would be leaving ESPN after 18 years with the network, following reports that he will join SiriusXM as part of its $1 billion deal with Barstool Sports Radio Network (BSRN). His first two shows are set to debut next week:
- One featuring him alone
- Another co-hosted by Michael Wilbon
Smith will reportedly earn $40 million per year under terms agreed upon between BSRN and SiriusXM, according to sources familiar with negotiations over the deal.
Changes at ESPN
ESPN announced last week that Michelle Beadle will no longer host her daily afternoon talk show alongside Cody Decker starting next Monday. Instead, she will join Wilbon for two hours each weekday afternoon starting August 7th.
In response, Beadle took aim at her former employer via social media, writing:
“I guess I should have stayed quiet” before adding “Thanks @espn.”
Beadle’s comments came after she made headlines earlier this month when she appeared at an event hosted by Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, where she performed stand-up comedy routines. Portnoy has been vocal about taking shots at ESPN since announcing plans last year for BSRN’s launch, which included hiring several high-profile personalities, including former Fox News personality Tucker Carlson.
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