Since his last NFL game in 2021, Cam Newton has fully moved into media and content creation while maintaining close ties to the Carolina Panthers fanbase. He signed a multi-year agreement to expand his role on ESPN’s First Take, built out a large production studio for his own shows in metro Atlanta, and continues to host conversations around football and culture.
This weekend, he also returns to Charlotte in a ceremonial role before the Panthers’ Wild Card home game, spotlighting a thaw in relations after years of distance from the franchise.
Cam Newton Is Embracing Life as a Podcast Host
Newton is a full-time content creator and media entrepreneur, operating a 26,000‑square‑foot production facility in South Fulton under his Iconic Saga banner, home to his podcasts Funky Friday and 4th & 1.
He describes the work as disciplined and deliberate: “This is not a hobby. This is far beyond a passion. This is actual work,” he told 11Alive, underscoring his hands‑on role in creative decisions and brand partnerships. He added, “This is a real job. You have to think about thumbnails, you have to think about titles.”
He also returned to First Take under a new multi‑year deal announced by ESPN in August 2025, contributing regular analysis alongside Stephen A. Smith and other personalities. “I am excited to be back with the First Take team and share my voice on all things sports,” Newton said in the announcement. ESPN noted his “unique perspective” and team‑focused approach within the show’s weekday lineup.
On his own platforms, Newton has continued to engage current NFL topics and his personal journey. He has discussed why he believes he is no longer in the league, responded to questions from guests, including Jemele Hill, and reflected on moments that felt disrespectful to veterans, such as the Indianapolis Colts exploring a late‑season return for Philip Rivers.
At the age of 36, he has not officially retired, but his day-to-day emphasis is on media, production, and community-driven content.
Newton Returns to Carolina for First Time Since Retirement
Newton will reportedly hit the “Keep Pounding” drum before the Panthers host the Los Angeles Rams in the opening game of Wild Card Weekend, marking his first in‑stadium appearance since his 2021 comeback season and signaling a warmer chapter with the franchise.
The Panthers confirmed his pregame role and promoted the moment on social channels as fans welcomed the MVP back to Charlotte ahead of the club’s first home playoff game in a decade.
The return follows years of distance after Newton said he felt left out of franchise events, including the team’s Germany trip in 2024, when he remarked on his podcast, “Did it hurt my feelings? Yeah, it did. As a man, I’m like, damn bro, I gave this city everything.”
Saturday’s ceremony reconnects the Panthers’ greatest quarterback with supporters who asked for his presence, while the team aims to energize the stadium as a double‑digit home underdog.
In the broader context, Newton’s continued presence in the media and his rekindled public connection to Carolina reflect how iconic players often evolve after their playing careers. Between studio work, live debate shows, and original podcasts, he has established a consistent voice while remaining visible to the Panthers fan base.
With First Take appearances, expanding facilities for creators in Atlanta, and a featured role in Charlotte on Wild Card Saturday, Newton’s current chapter blends entrepreneurship and on‑air work with an ongoing bond to the city where he won MVP and reached the Super Bowl.
