Stephen A. Smith Fires Back At Michelle Obama’s Real Housewives Comments
Stephen A. Smith isn’t staying quiet after Michelle Obama had some choice words for ESPN and his role on the network. In a recent episode of her podcast ‘IMO,’ the former First Lady threw some slick shade, comparing ESPN’s heated sports talk to the drama-filled antics of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta.”
“It’s the same drama, and they’re yelling at each other, and they don’t get along, you know? I mean, Stephen A. Smith, he’s just like every other talk show host,” she said, according to the Daily Mail.
But Stephen A. wasn’t here for the comparison — or for the political undertones that came with it. In his latest YouTube segment, the outspoken ESPN personality made it crystal clear: he respects Michelle, but he won’t let her slide without responding.
Smith Calls Obama’s Trump Voting Comment
‘Offensive’
Stephen A. reminded listeners that while he holds Michelle Obama in high regard, her previous comments suggesting a vote for Trump was a vote “against her” didn’t sit right with him.
“Michelle Obama, I wanna take this opportunity to remind you that while you are revered by me personally—and I mean that sincerely—I’m still a bit salty at you,” he said.
Smith didn’t sugarcoat his feelings. He acknowledged her as an icon but pushed back on her implication that voting for Trump equates to disrespecting her or other women. “I took major offense to that,” he added.
He emphasized that people don’t vote based on one single issue. “For some people, it’s all about the economy. For others, it’s about national security. Some are focused on immigration or safety in America long before pro-choice or pro-life considerations,” he explained.
Stephen A. Shuts Down ‘Reality TV’ Comparison
As for the “Real Housewives” comparison? Smith kept it a buck.
In his response, he said the analogy was “sensational,” pointing out that reality TV often thrives on scripted drama and setups, while sports debates — especially his — come from real-life matchups, stats, and passion.
“No, reality TV is not like that. You’re so wrong about that assertion, but that’s neither here nor there,” Smith fired back.
He urged Michelle to consider inviting guests with “dissenting” viewpoints on her podcast so the conversation wouldn’t be one-sided — just like he and his ESPN co-hosts constantly challenge one another.
Smith Leaves The Door Open With Respect — But Stays Firm
Despite the critique, Smith ended his message on a note of admiration, reminding folks that his disappointment comes from a place of deep respect.
“You will never hear me utter a negative word about you,” he said. “However, I’m still pretty salty about what you said about us.”
