A leaked audio clip has ignited a controversy surrounding ESPN, revealing a staff member’s comments about sports personality Stephen A. Smith. The clip, posted by James O’Keefe, founder of the far-right activist group Project Veritas, allegedly captures a conversation between a person identified as LA-based assignment editor and producer Ryan Bertrand and another individual.
ESPN Staffer Calls Stephen A. Smith An “Angry Black Man” As Racist Comments Ignite Massive Controversy
In the audio, the person believed to be Bertrand is heard commenting on the perceived racial undertones of Smith’s on-air persona. “We have this one guy, his name is Stephen A. Smith, he plays the angry Black man on TV,” the voice says. “The angry Black man stereotype is basically, you’re loud, you talk over people, what you say is not necessarily important, it’s more how loud you are and how, I guess, you deliver your speech.”
Despite these racially charged comments, the voice also acknowledges Smith’s awareness of his role and his proficiency in performing it, seemingly justifying Smith’s substantial compensation. “He knows how to play that role pretty well. I think the higher-ups at ESPN and Disney see that,” the voice says.
The leaked audio also touches upon Smith’s confrontations with NBA star LeBron James. The voice states, “He’s like this angry Black man, that like, literally is cursing at LeBron James, or like, cursing somebody else or whatever.” Another voice adds, “He had been talking about LeBron’s son for a while. Long story short, LeBron confronted him at a game one time, like lately, or recently. Like, stepped up to him and basically said, ‘Stop talking s— about my son.'”
Beyond the racial implications, the audio clip also casts doubt on Smith’s knowledge of major global issues, raising questions about the credibility of his forays into political commentary. Following the release of the audio, the person believed to be Bertrand deactivated their LinkedIn account and made their X account private.
This controversy emerges as Stephen A. Smith has become increasingly vocal on political matters, including criticism of President Donald Trump’s stance on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs. Smith has even challenged Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and former Fox News host Pete Hegseth to a live TV debate on the topic.
The leaked audio has sparked debate about racial stereotypes, the role of race in sports media, and the challenges faced by personalities who transition into political commentary.
