Stephen HollyFollowing an investigation into a leaked WhatsApp recording that allegedly included sexist and homophobic remarks directed at a female coworker, Fox Sports broadcaster Tom Morris was fired.
The audio message, which Fox Sports learned about on Thursday, was “inappropriate,” according to executive director Steve Crawley, who added that the network has a “zero tolerance” policy.
“At Fox Sports, our culture is built on a courteous, inclusive atmosphere and a level playing field for all,” Crawley added. “While Tom’s journalism has been a significant asset to Fox Sports over the last seven years, the message we learned about yesterday went too far.
“The bottom line is that we are committed to creating a work atmosphere in which everyone feels secure, respected, and valued.”
Morris apologized on Twitter late Friday, saying he was “very sorry” for his actions.
He stated, “I would like to unconditionally apologize to everyone for my filthy and horrible remarks.”
“I’m particularly sad for the person that was involved. No one should ever be spoken about in that manner, in any place or at any time. “
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) March 18, 2022
Morris was suspended on Thursday, less than 24 hours after receiving an apology from Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge for his post-game news conference rant.
On Thursday night, a Fox Sports representative said, “Fox Sports has suspended a reporter pending an investigation into an inappropriate audio recording.”
“While further comment is not appropriate, Fox Sports is committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels secure, respected, and cherished.”
Morris’ comments were “obviously inappropriate,” according to AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan, who made the statement earlier on Friday.
Fox Sports has taken action, “I’ve just seen it in written form, and the sentiments from what I’ve seen of it are plainly unacceptable, and Fox Sports has taken action,” McLachlan told 3AW.
“I don’t want to say anything else because I believe it is still under review.”
Beveridge stormed out of his media briefing on Wednesday night after a three-minute tirade in which he called Morris a “gutter journalist.”
The Western Bulldogs and Beveridge issued a written and video apology after the heated exchange overshadowed the AFL’s season-opener, which Melbourne won by 26 points.
Get around your favorite women sports journos today. Cos the way one of our own was talked about today is what we all fear we are reduced to when we leave the room.
— Emma Race (@Emsyanna) March 17, 2022
“I’ve considered my statements and actions from last night’s post-game press conference and recognize that my exchange with journalist Tom Morris went too far,” he stated.
“I realized what I done wasn’t right. It does not reflect our club’s unique culture, which means a great deal to me.
“While I was extremely upset in the aftermath of a devastating loss, that is no excuse for allowing those feelings to overpower me.”
Morris has been contacted for a response.
