Alexis Ohanian Confronts Stephen A. Smith Live on Air for Comments About Serena Williams

On October 9, 2025, Alexis Ohanian, husband of tennis icon Serena Williams, made headlines when he unexpectedly appeared on the set of ESPN’s First Take to confront commentator Stephen A. Smith. The Reddit co-founder calmly but firmly addressed Smith’s earlier remarks about his marriage to Williams, leaving the usually outspoken sports analyst visibly uncomfortable. (People)

The Controversy Behind the Scene

The tension stemmed from comments Smith made back in February, following Serena Williams’ surprise cameo during the Super Bowl LIX halftime show. Williams appeared alongside Kendrick Lamar as he performed “Not Like Us,” a song widely interpreted as a diss track aimed at rapper Drake — Williams’ rumored ex-boyfriend. During the performance, she performed a crip walk, which many interpreted as playful but pointed. (People)

Smith harshly criticized her appearance, saying that if he were in Ohanian’s place, he would see it as disrespectful. He stated on First Take:

“If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to his a–. Because clearly, you don’t belong with me. What you worried about him for and you’re with me? Bye. Bye.” (Page Six)

His remarks drew widespread backlash online and in the press. Critics accused Smith of being disrespectful and dismissive toward one of the most accomplished women in sports. (The Independent)

Smith later attempted to clarify, saying his words were taken out of context and that he was speaking “from a general man’s perspective” rather than targeting Williams personally. (People)

The Live Show Confrontation

Months later, Ohanian decided to address the issue directly — and publicly. Appearing on First Take while cameras rolled, he faced Smith with calm precision:

“Stephen A. Smith, I think you had some marriage advice for me. Is that right?”

Caught off guard, Smith laughed nervously and replied, “Oh, I am not qualified. Marital advice? Oh no, not me.”

But Ohanian didn’t let up. He continued:

“You hadn’t been married before, right? Because I give advice to plenty of founders who want to build billion-dollar companies. And the reason I do that is because I build billion-dollar companies. So, I generally try to stay in my lane in the advice department.”

The exchange left Smith silent for a rare moment as the show quickly cut to commercial. Viewers immediately flooded social media, praising Ohanian for standing his ground. (People)

Public Reaction

Reactions online were swift and emphatic. One viewer wrote, “Never seen Stephen A look so scared in my life.” Another commented, “Ohanian had him stuttering just like LeBron did. He’ll be throwing subtle shots at Serena now.”

Many praised Ohanian’s measured response, calling it a “masterclass in controlled confidence.” Some even described it as “gangster-level calm” — a subtle but powerful defense of his wife’s integrity. (People)

Smith’s Attempt to Defuse the Situation

Following the viral exchange, Smith tried to further explain his original comments, insisting he meant no disrespect to Williams or Ohanian. He argued that the debate had been exaggerated by social media and that the conversation on First Take was meant to be light-hearted. (People)

However, the damage was already done. Other television hosts, including Whoopi Goldberg on The View, questioned why Smith chose to criticize Williams instead of simply applauding her performance and confidence on one of the world’s biggest stages. (The Independent)

Sources close to Williams later said she viewed Smith as “a self-absorbed, chauvinistic loudmouth who was just trying to get a reaction.” (RadarOnline)

A Powerful Display of Support

For many, Ohanian’s actions symbolized unwavering spousal loyalty. Serena Williams remains one of the greatest athletes in history, with 23 Grand Slam titles and four Olympic gold medals. Ohanian, beyond co-founding Reddit, is a respected entrepreneur and investor who launched Athlos, a professional women’s track and field initiative designed to empower female athletes. Together, they are raising two daughters, Alexis Olympia and Adira River, while balancing global influence and family life. (People)

As one online user perfectly summarized the moment:

“He pulled up to his workplace in a suit and calmly said, ‘Try Jesus, but don’t try me.’ The calmest, most respectful, yet stand-on-business way possible. Whew. Cleared.”

Another added, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen Stephen A. speechless.”

Indeed, for a man known for his booming voice and strong opinions, watching Stephen A. Smith rendered silent may be the most surprising — and satisfying — outcome of this entire saga.