Stephen A. Smith Named BFOA Broadcast Personality of the Year

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith is being honored with the very first Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) “Broadcast Personality of the Year Award.” 

The award will be presented during the BFOA’s Gala at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on Monday, March 9. The Gala is a major fundraiser for the BFOA, which provides financial assistance to broadcasters in acute need from debilitating disease or disaster.

With his passionate opinions and insight on the day’s headlines and biggest stories, Smith has carved a career in television, radio, journalism, sports and political commentary, acting, business, and more. A native of Hollis Queens, Smith has grown his career from a high school reporter for the NY Daily News to a multi-platform powerhouse in media.

Stephen A Smith

“We are excited to introduce the Broadcast Personality of the Year Award and there is no one better to be our first honoree than Stephen,” said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation.” There are very few in broadcasting that are as authentic as Stephen. His tremendous work ethic and candid delivery make Stephen a personality on any platform that you must pay attention to, and I know first-hand his work ethic is second to none.”

Smith is the Featured Commentator/Executive Producer of First Take, ESPN’s signature morning debate show. He also hosts Straight Shooter, a live political and current events show, on Sirius XM, marking a significant expansion for Smith beyond his traditional sports commentary into the realm of politics and social issues.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from Tim and the Broadcasters Foundation,” stated Smith.

“The Broadcasters Foundation is a unique charity that helps support those in our industry who are suffering under the most daunting circumstances. I am delighted to be a part of this important fundraising gala that will help so many.”

Smith began his broadcasting career in radio at 1050 ESPN, New York City, where Tim McCarthy was General Manager. Smith has hosted national radio programs on the ESPN Radio Network and the Fox Radio Network and local programs on ESPN radio stations in New York City and Los Angeles.

He is the author of the New York Times Best Seller “Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes,” and a daytime television star with a recurring role on ABC TV’s long-running soap opera, General Hospital.

Prior to entering the world of broadcasting, Smith held several positions at the Philadelphia Inquirer, including general sports columnist.

As previously announced, this year’s BFOA Gala will also honor VERSANT CEO and Former Chair of NBCUniversal Media Group Mark Lazarus with the Golden Mic Award and Judge Judy Sheindlin with the Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award.

To purchase tickets to the Broadcasters Foundation Gala, please click here. For more information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to apply for aid or make a donation, visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.