Wed Jul 02 08:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized version of the text followed by a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

Molly Qerim, host of ESPN’s “First Take,” is taking a temporary break from the show to spend time with family and enjoy the summer lull in the sports calendar. Her absence coincides with “First Take’s” move to a new, state-of-the-art studio at ESPN’s Robert A. Iger Building in Manhattan. Stephen A. Smith will continue to anchor the show with a rotating cast of analysts during Qerim’s absence. She is expected to return as the NFL and NBA seasons begin.

**News Article:**

**Molly Qerim Takes “First Take” Break as ESPN Debuts New Manhattan Studio**

**NEW YORK, NY** – “First Take” host Molly Qerim is stepping away from the popular ESPN debate show for a few weeks to enjoy some family time and a well-deserved break. Her absence comes as ESPN’s “First Take” recently debuted its new state-of-the-art studio at the Robert A. Iger Building in Lower Manhattan.

Qerim, who has been a fixture on “First Take” since 2015, made the announcement that she will be temporarily pausing to recharge. The timing aligns with the quieter period of the American sports calendar, following the NBA and NHL seasons, and before the return of the NFL.

During Qerim’s absence, Stephen A. Smith will continue to anchor “First Take,” alongside a rotating panel of analysts. The show will continue its weekday broadcasts from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET.

Qerim’s break coincides with the show’s relocation to Studio 2Y within ESPN’s cutting-edge production facility, part of the 22-story Robert A. Iger Building at 7 Hudson Square. The building, designed by SOM, consolidates several Disney-owned entities, including ESPN, ABC News, and WABC-TV.

Studio 2Y is designed to resemble a Manhattan penthouse, creating an open and urban aesthetic. According to ESPN president of content, Burke Magnus, the new space is intended to match the “bold conversations and big personalities” of the show.

Qerim is expected to return to “First Take” in time for the kickoff of the NFL season and the ramp-up to the NBA and NHL campaigns. Her return will likely be timed with a refreshed format or key show developments in line with ESPN’s broader content strategy.

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