Skip Bayless returned to ESPN for a guest appearance on First Take on May 8, reuniting with Stephen A. Smith for the first time in eight years. The reunion delivered a massive ratings bump, with viewership for the episode surging 44% compared to the same slot last year, signaling that the provocateur's brand of debate television still commands a massive audience.
The podcast reaction has been starkly divided. On Pardon My Take, Dan Katz leaned into the nostalgia and effectiveness of the performance, remarking, "Still got it. Still got it." For Katz, the ability to stir up discourse—even through baffling LeBron James rankings—remains a singular talent.
Conversely, Bill Simmons remained unimpressed on The Bill Simmons Podcast. Addressing the return, Simmons made his stance clear: "By the way, Skip Bayless, who I can't say I'm a fan of-" before pivoting to his own critiques of the broadcast style. While the industry debates his longevity, Bayless seems intent on capitalizing on the momentum, framing the appearance as a "rebirth" and actively courting further spots.
