Was Sage Steele Fired From ESPN? Controversy Explained

There has been considerable speculation about whether Sage Steele was fired from ESPN. The network parted ways with Steele following a wave of controversy sparked by her remarks on political and social issues. Her comments generated significant backlash and led to her removal from the air, prompting widespread curiosity over the details of her departure.

Here is everything to know about whether Sage Steele was fired from ESPN, along with her controversial remarks.

Did ESPN fire Sage Steele?

Last year, an ESPN spokesperson announced that the network and Sage Steele had mutually decided to part ways.

Sage Steele was removed from ESPN in 2021 after making contentious statements on political and social issues. Her comments led to significant backlash, prompting her to apologize. Steele later sued ESPN and claimed that the network retaliated against her and infringed on her free speech rights. She argued that ESPN’s response to her remarks was hasty and misrepresented her views, resulting in her suspension. Meanwhile, ESPN denies the claims of suspension.

Following the resolution of her lawsuit, Steele announced her departure from ESPN on X (formerly Twitter). She wrote, “Life update. Having successfully settled my case with ESPN/Disney, I have decided to leave so I can exercise my First Amendment rights more freely. I am grateful for so many wonderful experiences over the past 16 years and am excited for my next chapter!” ESPN confirmed the news to CNN, stating, “ESPN and Sage Steele have mutually agreed to part ways. We thank her for her many contributions over the years.”

In 2021, Sage Steele sparked controversy during her appearance on the Uncut With Jay Cutler podcast. As reported by USA Today, she acknowledged individuals’ right to choose whether to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and expressed strong objections to ESPN’s vaccine mandate, calling it “sick” and “scary.”

Steele also questioned former President Obama’s decision to identify as Black on the census and made contentious comments about female sports reporters that were interrupted as implying that victims bore responsibility in cases of sexual harassment.