“Sports broadcasting is about more than scores—it’s about telling the stories behind the athletes.” — Shae Cornette
Shae Cornette (née Peppler) is an American sports broadcaster and television personality, best known as the host of ESPN’s First Take and for her work across ESPN Radio and SiriusXM. She has built a career defined by versatility, professionalism, and charisma, becoming one of the most recognizable women in sports media.
Shae Cornette has risen to prominence as a dynamic sports journalist, blending sharp analysis with engaging delivery. From her beginnings in Chicago to her national role at ESPN, she has become a trusted voice in sports broadcasting. Her journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a passion for storytelling.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1986 | Born in Chicago, Illinois |
| 2000s | Attended Indiana University Bloomington |
| 2008 | Graduated with a degree in Broadcast Journalism |
| 2010 | Began career with Big Ten Network and Chicago Huddle on WLS-TV |
| 2013 | Worked with Campus Insiders (later Stadium) and WGN-TV’s Morning Dose |
| 2017 | Co-hosted Kap & Co. on ESPN 1000 Chicago |
| 2019 | Married ESPN analyst Jordan Cornette |
| 2020 | Joined ESPN Radio and SiriusXM nationally |
| 2022 | Became host of ESPN’s First Take |
| 2025 | Continues as ESPN host and national sports broadcaster |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shae Peppler Cornette |
| Date of Birth | 1986 |
| Age | 39 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in |
| Education | Indiana University – BA in Broadcast Journalism |
| Profession | Sports Anchor, Host |
| Employer | ESPN |
| Marital Status | Married to Jordan Cornette (2019–present) |
| Children | Two |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–2 million |
| Salary | Estimated $100,000–$200,000 annually |
Early Life & Education
Shae Cornette was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1986. Growing up, she developed a passion for sports and communication.
She attended Indiana University Bloomington, where she majored in Broadcast Journalism. During her college years, she completed internships with MTV Networks and Showtime Networks, and worked as a production assistant for CBS coverage of Chicago Bears games. These experiences gave her early exposure to the media industry and prepared her for a career in sports broadcasting.
Career Background
Cornette began her career in Chicago, working with the Big Ten Network and hosting Chicago Huddle on WLS-TV (ABC 7). She later joined Campus Insiders (later Stadium), where she expanded her national presence.
Her versatility was evident when she appeared on WGN-TV’s Morning Dose, blending sports coverage with lifestyle programming.
By 2017, she co-hosted Kap & Co. on ESPN 1000 Chicago, one of the station’s highest-rated shows. Her success led to opportunities on ESPN Radio and SiriusXM, where she became a national voice in sports talk.
In 2022, Cornette achieved a major milestone by becoming host of ESPN’s First Take, one of the network’s flagship programs. Her role includes moderating debates, interviewing athletes, and providing analysis across ESPN platforms.

Achievements
- Host of ESPN’s First Take
- Co-host of Kap & Co. on ESPN 1000 Chicago
- National presence on ESPN Radio and SiriusXM
- Early career success with Big Ten Network and WGN-TV
- Recognized for versatility and professionalism in sports broadcasting
Personal Life
Shae Cornette married Jordan Cornette, a former Notre Dame basketball player and ESPN analyst, in 2019. Together, they have two children. The couple is notable for being the first married duo to host a national ESPN Radio show together.
Cornette balances her demanding career with family life, often sharing glimpses of her personal journey on social media.
Salary & Net Worth
- Salary: Estimated $100,000–$200,000 annually
- Net Worth: Estimated $1–2 million, reflecting her career in broadcasting and media
Legacy
Shae Cornette’s legacy lies in her trailblazing role as a woman in sports broadcasting. Her career reflects the growing opportunities for women in sports media and the importance of representation.
By combining professionalism with relatability, she has become a trusted figure in American sports journalism. Her role at ESPN’s First Take highlights her ability to engage audiences and shape conversations in sports.
As she continues her career, Shae Cornette remains a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and dedication in sports broadcasting.









