Who Is Shae Cornette?

Shae Cornette is a prominent American television sports anchor, best known as the host of ESPN’s highly-rated debate show, First Take. Her journey to one of the most coveted seats in sports media is a story of talent, perseverance, and a deep-rooted passion for sports broadcasting.

Born and raised in Chicago, Cornette’s career began in the competitive local sports scene. She honed her skills as a versatile reporter and anchor, eventually earning a national platform where she has become a familiar face to millions of sports fans.

Her appointment as the host of First Take in late 2025 marked a major milestone, placing her alongside sports media giant Stephen A. Smith and solidifying her status as a leading voice in the industry.

Early Life and Education

Shae Peppler Cornette was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1986. Growing up in a city with a rich sports culture, she developed an early interest in the world of athletics and media.

She pursued her passion at Indiana University Bloomington, a school renowned for its journalism program. There, she earned degrees in broadcast journalism and kinesiology, a combination that gave her a unique understanding of both the media landscape and the physical aspects of sports.

During her college years, Cornette gained valuable experience through internships with major media companies like MTV Networks and Showtime Networks. She also worked as a production assistant for CBS, contributing to the coverage of Chicago Bears games and laying the groundwork for her future career.

Career Beginnings in Chicago

After graduating, Shae Cornette immersed herself in the Chicago sports media market. She began her career with roles at the Big Ten Network and on “Chicago Huddle,” a program on WLS-TV (ABC 7).

Her versatility quickly became apparent as she took on various roles, including work for Campus Insiders (which later became Stadium) and appearances on “Morning Dose” on WGN-TV. She spent two years at WFLD (Fox-32), where she served as a field reporter and weekend sports anchor.

During her time at Fox-32, she became a well-known correspondent for Chicago Bears games, hosting pre- and post-game shows and her own weekly program, “Bears Unleashed.” She also co-hosted a talk show on WMVP (ESPN 1000), further establishing her reputation as a knowledgeable and engaging sports journalist.

Journey to ESPN

Shae Cornette’s path to ESPN was intertwined with her personal life. In 2014, while working at Campus Insiders, she met Jordan Cornette, a former Notre Dame basketball player and fellow sports announcer. The two began a relationship that would eventually lead them both to the pinnacle of sports broadcasting.

In March 2020, Cornette moved to Connecticut and joined ESPN, where she and her husband made history. They became the first married couple to co-host a show on ESPN Radio, leading the weekly football program “GameDay.”

Her role continued to expand as she became a host for SiriusXM’s NFL Radio and, in October 2021, co-hosted the relaunched ESPN+ show “SportsNation” with Jordan. This period marked her transition from a respected regional reporter to a rising national star.

Rise to SportsCenter and First Take

At ESPN, Shae Cornette’s talent and work ethic propelled her to increasingly prominent roles. She became a regular anchor for SportsCenter, the network’s flagship news program, where she covered the biggest stories in sports from around the world.

Her dynamic presence and ability to connect with audiences made her a standout on the network. In October 2025, she was named the new host of First Take, succeeding Molly Qerim. The move was a significant endorsement of her abilities, placing her at the debate desk of one of ESPN’s most-watched shows.

Joining Stephen A. Smith on First Take represented the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. It was a clear recognition of her status as one of the most capable and respected hosts in sports media.

Personal Life and Family

Beyond the camera, Shae Cornette’s life is centered around her family. She married Jordan Cornette on June 1, 2019. The couple has a son, Joey, born in April 2021, and a daughter, Saylor, born in January 2023. Their son is named in honor of Jordan’s late brother, Joel Cornette, a former Butler basketball star who passed away in 2016.

Their relationship began during a challenging time, as Shae’s sister, Coley, was battling Stage 4 Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The experience of navigating love and loss together forged a powerful bond between them. Today, Coley is cancer-free and pursuing a career in nursing.

Cornette often speaks about the importance of balancing her demanding career with her family life, which also includes her stepson, Carter. Her personal journey has provided her with a unique perspective that resonates in her work.

Philanthropy and Beyond Broadcasting

Inspired by her sister’s battle with cancer, Shae Cornette has dedicated herself to giving back. She is the co-founder of “Fashion’s Fight Against Cancer,” a fundraising event that has raised over $200,000 for pediatric cancer research.

Her philanthropic work is a testament to her commitment to making a difference off-screen. It reflects a deep sense of empathy and a desire to support others facing similar struggles to what her family endured.

This dedication to community involvement showcases a side of Cornette that extends beyond her role as a sports media personality, highlighting her character and compassion.

Shae Cornette’s Impact on Sports Broadcasting

Shae Cornette has already made a significant impact on the world of sports broadcasting. As part of the first married couple to host a show on ESPN Radio, she has broken new ground in the industry.

She stands as a powerful example for women in sports media, demonstrating that talent and hard work can lead to the highest levels of the profession. Her versatility across television, radio, and digital platforms sets her apart as a modern media professional.

With her new role on First Take, Shae Cornette’s influence is only set to grow. She continues to build a legacy as a skilled journalist, an engaging host, and an inspiring figure in the sports world.