Fox Sports seems to have a nightmare on its hands with Skip Bayless reportedly having the “final say” in choosing who will be his next co-host on the popular morning show “Undisputed.”
Headlines were made this week when it was announced that Shannon Sharpe was leaving his post as the long-time co-host of Fox Sports’ flagship morning show, “Undisputed.” While surprising, the departure was not completely unexpected. Sharpe and co-host Skip Bayless have never had a love affair with each other as they often clashed in their debates over various topics from the world of professional sports.
Also Read: Shannon Sharpe leaving ‘Undisputed’ amid rift with Skip Bayless
Since the news broke, many have wondered who might get to take over a spot on one of the most well-known television shows in the sports world. However, a new report claims filling Sharpe’s position could prove extremely difficult for Fox Sports for several reasons.
Skip Bayless salary: $8 million annually
On Thursday, a source revealed the messy situation with “Undisputed” to Front Office Sports. They claimed that Skip Bayless “micromanages” the show and that “nothing happens on that show without” him, even when he is away. Furthermore, staff fears ramifications from management if they tweet or mention anything about the 71-year-old publicly.
Yet, what truly makes matters worse is Skip Bayless will reportedly have the “final say” on who is his next partner in what was formerly known as “Skip and Shannon Undisputed.” Overall, the source claimed it may not be the dream job some would assume.
“Skip is not going to hire anybody who challenges him — and he’s going to make the hire. So it’s a crazy deal. And here’s the kicker: you have to be willing to work with Skip, you’re going to have to put up with some [expletive], and he has to approve of you. And you have to get up at 3:30 in the morning.”
– Source to Front Office Sports
The one upside that is mentioned in the report is that the next co-host is likely to land a very nice multi-million dollar deal by joining “Undisputed.”