Sage Steele Defends Sam Ponder After ESPN Firing
- Former ESPN host Sage Steele breaks her silence on Sam Ponder firing.
- Steele defends Ponder in an emotional video, claiming 'it's all gonna come out.'
- Steele expresses concern over the loss for ESPN due to Ponder's firing.
In a heartfelt social media video, former SportsCenter anchor Sage Steele expressed her support for Sam Ponder, who was recently let go from ESPN's Sunday NFL Countdown. Steele described Ponder as a "gem" and predicted that the truth about her character would soon be revealed. Ponder's dismissal, part of a cost-cutting measure that also affected analyst Robert Griffin III, has raised questions about whether her controversial comments regarding trans women contributed to the decision. Steele praised Ponder for her resilience and the positive impact she has had on her life, emphasizing Ponder's strength in the face of adversity during her tenure at ESPN. "Samantha has taught me so much about God, about scripture, about not giving up," Steele stated, highlighting Ponder's role as a mother and mentor. She expressed excitement for Ponder's future, despite the uncertainty that comes with such a significant career change. Ponder, who was released two years into her three-year, $3 million contract, will reportedly receive her full salary. The timing of her dismissal coincides with the end of ESPN's fiscal year on September 30, according to sources. Ponder's recent comments on social media regarding gender identity in sports have sparked further controversy, particularly in light of her departure. Steele herself left ESPN in August 2023 after settling a lawsuit related to her removal from air, which she attributed to her outspoken views on the network's COVID-19 vaccine policy.