ESPN Suspends TV Host Stephen A. Smith For Domestic Violence Comments; As Whoopi Goldberg Defends Smith, CNN Anchor Carol Costello Reveals Her Personal Domestic Violence History [VIDEO]

ESPN is pulling Stephen A. Smith off the air, and suspending the TV host for the damaging comments he made about women and domestic violence last week.

According to TMZ, the network reveals that Smith will not appear on his scheduled show, First Take or on ESPN Radio until next month, August 6.

While on air Smith talked about Baltimore Raven's star Ray Rice's suspension. Smith expressed his opinion that he would advise women to make sure they're not doing anything "to provoke wrong actions," including statements to men, encouraging them, "what not to do."

Tuesday morning on First Take Smith apologized, and ESPN released a statement, that read: "We will continue to have constructive dialogue on this important topic. Stephen's comments last Friday do not reflect our company's point of view."

It continues, "As his apology demonstrates, he recognizes his mistakes and has a deeper appreciation of our company values."

Smith's comments left many in the media industry outraged including, fellow ESPN anchor, Michelle Beadle, and CNN anchor, Carol Costello.

CLICK TO SEE Carol Costello's personal story of domestic violence.

The View host, Whoopi Goldberg defended Smith, adding keep your hands to yourself. She said, "If you hit a man don't be surprised if he hits back. "