Sportscaster Smith suspended by ESPN
NEW YORK — ESPN has suspended outspoken sportscaster Stephen A. Smith for a week because of his comments about domestic abuse suggesting women should make sure that they don’t do anything to provoke an attack.
Smith’s commentary occurred on ESPN2’s “First Take” last Friday during discussion of the NFL’s two-game suspension of running back Ray Rice following charges he assaulted his now-wife. The remarks attracted widespread attention, including a rebuke online from a fellow ESPN personality.
Smith issued an on-air apology Monday.
A day later, ESPN took action. The network’s chief executive, John Skipper, told ESPN’s staff in a memo it was done after a “thoughtful discussion.”
Smith will not appear on “First Take” or ESPN radio until Aug. 6. Shortly after Smith’s remarks, colleague Michelle Beadle said on Twitter that “I was just forced to watch this morning’s First Take. A) I’ll never feel clean again B) I’m not aware that I can provoke my own beating.”
