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Stephen A. Smith has social media buzzing after he confused Houston Texans wide receiver Christian Kirk with late conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The mix-up occurred during Tuesday's (January 13) episode of ESPN's First Take as Smith and his panel were breaking down Monday (January 12) night's Wild Card playoff game, where the Texans defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 30-6. Kirk had a standout performance, recording eight receptions for 144 yards and one touchdown, setting a postseason record for the team.
While attempting to credit Kirk for his contributions, Smith mistakenly said, “We saw Charlie Kirk catch eight receptions for 144 yards,” before quickly being corrected by co-host Shae Peppler Cornette.
“I’m sorry, I apologize. Oh my God, I meant Christian Kirk,” Smith responded, visibly flustered.
The mix-up quickly went viral online as Smith, who has also been known for his controversial political commentary, faces heightened criticism over his takes.
“Stephen A. is getting his lanes mixed up lolol,” one social media user commented.
“How do you even continue your point after that?” another quipped.
Smith's blunder comes after Charlie Kirk was killed in September 2025 while speaking at Utah Valley University. Smith had previously spoken publicly about the incident, condemning celebrations of Kirk’s death.
The First Take host recently faced backlash for his take on the ICE killing of Renee Nicole Good. Despite Minneapolis officials denouncing Good's death as unjustified, Smith maintained that the officer's actions were legally justified.
“I saw the video on numerous occasions and seeing what transpired from a lawful perspective, as it pertains to a law enforcement official, don’t expect him to be prosecuted,” Smith said on his podcast. “He was completely justified.”
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