'First Take' Host Stephen A. Smith Says Shannon Sharpe's ESPN Leave Is 'A Blow to Me Personally' – but Not a Surprise

Stephen A. Smith opened up about his "First Take" co-host Shannon Sharpe stepping away from the ESPN show following rape allegations that were filed in a lawsuit earlier this week. While speaking on his YouTube show Friday, Smith emphasized that he would always be there for Sharpe and that he does not believe his co-host is guilty of the allegations. An ex-girlfriend accused the former NFL star of rape and is seeking $50 million in damages. "Do I believe that Shannon Sharpe is guilty of what he has been accused of? Absolutely not. That is my personal opinion," Smith said. "The . . .