
'Disgusting' - Hearts boss McInnes slams controversial last-gasp Celtic penalty
Hearts boss McInnes calls Celtic's last-minute penalty 'disgusting'
Skip Bayless' return to ESPN's *First Take* resulted in a 44% increase in viewership compared to last year, averaging 647,000 viewers. This marks a 24% rise from the show's average viewership in 2026.
Mentioned in this story
Credit: ESPN
Unsurprisingly, First Take had a banner day in the viewership department last Friday for Skip Bayless’ return to the ESPN morning program.
Bayless, who returned to debate longtime foil Stephen A. Smith on ESPN for the first time in 10 years, led to a 44% jump in viewership compared to the comparable episode last year, according to a report by Michael McCarthy in Front Office Sports. First Take averaged 647,000 viewers on Friday, which also marks a 24% increase from the show’s average viewership in 2026.
There was no question that Bayless’ return would lead to a spike in viewership, the only question would be how much. An increase of 44% year-over-year certainly shows there was outsized interest for the reunion.
Now, the question is whether or not ESPN will try and replicate the success down the line. If Bayless proves to be a consistent ratings draw, there could be a contributor role waiting for him on First Take similar to that of Christopher “Mad Dog” Russo’s recurring Wednesday appearances.
Per McCarthy, ESPN would not comment on any possible recurring role for Bayless. The reunion show itself was controversial enough given Bayless’ recent sexual misconduct allegations; embracing the former FS1 host as a First Take regular could potentially invite more scrutiny.
But now, the seal has officially been broken, and reaction to Bayless’ return was met with more curiosity than criticism.
If Bayless does continue to make appearances on First Take, there could be more attention given to a possible return from Shannon Sharpe. The former First Take regular was removed from the show last year after facing sexual assault allegations. However, Smith has publicly endorsed his return in recent months. No doubt, Sharpe could prove to boost ratings in a similar fashion to Bayless. For now, Sharpe’s return is “not under consideration,” per a source familiar with the matter.
The viewership increased by 44% compared to the same episode last year.
*First Take* averaged 647,000 viewers during Skip Bayless' return.
Bayless' return led to a notable spike in viewership, indicating strong audience interest in his debates with Stephen A. Smith.

Hearts boss McInnes calls Celtic's last-minute penalty 'disgusting'

Stina Blackstenius nets controversial late winner for Arsenal in 1-0 victory over Everton!

Gordon has agreed to join Bayern Munich, but Newcastle wants £75m.
Hearts' McInnes slams 'disgusting' penalty call against Celtic
Micah Richards urges inclusion of Phil Foden in England's World Cup squad after impressive performance.
Marlins' pitching prospect Robby Snelling goes on IL due to elbow pain.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
The post ‘First Take’ ratings spike for Skip Bayless reunion show, per report appeared first on Awful Announcing.