Some may call me a cynic.
I prefer to think of it like I’m trying to give your various angles of a situation and then let you decide how you feel about.
You would not be crazy in thinking that ESPN is using Stephen A. Smith’s comments about domestic violence and women not provoking men as a way to hype up Monday’s edition of First Take. Here is the statement released by ESPN via Awful Announcing.
“There has been a lot of discussion and reflection on the topic since Friday and it will continue. Stephen A. Smith plans to address the situation on Monday’s First Take and we will have more to say on Monday as well.”
Take a controversial topic, tease it on one of your most popular shows and watch the ratings go through the roof. It is promotions 101.
One could argue if ESPN truly cared about what Stephen A. said they could put him on Sportscenter or any of their various programs to address the situation.
If you watch, ESPN has accomplished their goal of using a serious issue as a promo for viewers. There is nothing wrong with that as long as you are aware it is happening.
You've been waiting to hear from me. Now you will in approx 30 minutes. @ESPN_FirstTake coming at ya at 10am. No one's hiding!
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) July 28, 2014