Stephen A. Smith Puts Replacement Host on Blast on Social Media

Stephen A. Smith may be taking a break from broadcasting, but he's still making his presence felt on First Take.

The sports commentator took to social media to jokingly call out fill-in host Chris "Mad Dog" Russo during the show on July 16. In a post on X , Smith told Russo to show more energy on screen.

"Hey @MadDogUnleashed, sit up in the [expletive] chair and get your energy up," Smith wrote. "You don’t get to slack off just because I’m not there. I’m always watching @FirstTake baby. Even when I’m not there……I’m there. There’s a standard big guy. Get a little pep in your step! That’s an order"

Co-host Dan Orlovsky ribbed Smith in return, joking about the out-of-date picture that the show was still using for Smith, one taken before the television host lost some weight.

This isn't the first time that Smith has issued some pointed advice to his fill-in hosts during his extended break from broadcasting. He also got some attention after calling out former NBA star Richard Jefferson's wardrobe choice earlier in the week.

"And I’m [expetive-near blinded by this jacket @Rjeff24 is wearing," Smith wrote. "A suspension should be discussed just for him wearing that on-air."

Smith could have more time to offer directives for the show's fill-in hosts. The Daily Mail reported that he will not return to the show until October, around the time that the next NBA season tips off.