Michelle Beadle, a well-known sports commentator and host, expressed her surprise and embarrassment after learning that Stephen A. Smith, an influential sports personality, would be taking over her time slot on SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio. Beadle and her co-host, Cody Decker, were caught off guard by the sudden announcement, which reportedly came with minimal notice and no prior details. Beadle revealed that the revelation came through an article by The Hollywood Reporter, which detailed Smith’s new SiriusXM program, set to launch in September.
Beadle, who has hosted several shows and programs including ESPN’s ‘NBA Countdown’ and FanDuel TV’s ‘Run It Back,’ admitted that the unexpected change was not only surprising but also somewhat embarrassing. She mentioned that she and Decker were promised no details would be released, and they were only given a few hours’ notice. Beadle stated, ‘I’ve been in this business for 20-plus years. I’ve been treated poorly a couple times. This didn’t feel good, I’m not gonna lie.’ Beadle highlighted the abrupt nature of the change and the lack of communication from SiriusXM.
Stephen A. Smith, known for his strong opinions and commentary on sports and current events, is set to take over the 12-3 p.m. ET time slot on Mad Dog Sports Radio. Smith will also have a second program, which focuses on weekly current events, pop culture, and social commentary, with its debut date yet to be announced. He expressed his excitement about the new opportunity, stating, ‘To say that I’m excited would be an understatement.’ Smith, who previously worked with ESPN, is reuniting with his former colleague, Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo, on SiriusXM.
The announcement has sparked conversations about the evolving landscape of sports radio and the competition to secure prime time slots. With Smith’s new programs set to debut, the shift in programming may affect the visibility and reach of Beadle and Decker’s show. Beadle’s frustration highlights the challenges faced by hosts who rely on consistent scheduling and communication to maintain their audience and brand presence. The situation underscores the dynamic nature of the broadcasting industry, where sudden changes can have significant impacts on both hosts and their audiences.
As Smith prepares to launch his SiriusXM programs, the sports radio landscape is expected to shift, with the potential for new programs to attract a broader audience. However, the abrupt nature of Beadle’s scheduling change serves as a reminder of the uncertainties that come with working in the entertainment industry. The incident has generated discussions about transparency and communication within the industry, particularly regarding the impact on established hosts and programs. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining how this change affects the broader media and sports commentary environment.