What was it you said, guv’ner?
Disappointing – but not surprising – news that English football analyst Andy Gray has been sacked by Sky Sports for a string of sexist comments.
The Daily Mail quoted a Sky Sports statement saying that: “Sky Sports has terminated its contract with Andy Gray. The decision which is effective immediately was made in response to new evidence of unacceptable and offensive behaviour.
“The new evidence relating to an off-air incident that took place in December 2010 came to light after Andy Gray had already been subjected to disciplinary action for his comments of 22 January 2011.”
Sky Sports managing director Barney Francis added: “Andy Gray’s contract has been terminated for unacceptable behaviour. After issuing a warning yesterday we have no hesitation in taking this action after becoming aware of new information today.”
Gray was originally in trouble for criticizing Sian Massey, a female assistant referee, off the air during Saturday’s game between Liverpool and Wolverhampton.
It got worse though when video footage surfaced of Gray making lewd comments to fellow Sky Sports personality Charlotte Jackson. According to published reports, the video shows Gray asking Jackson to tuck a microphone pack down his pants, saying “Charlotte, can you tuck this down here for me love … Tuck this down here.”
It’s disappointing because we enjoyed Gray’s work on ESPN during the 2008 European Championship and on Fox Soccer Channel during last summer’s World Cup.
Gray’s dismissal comes just a few weeks after ESPN fired announcer Ron Franklin after Franklin called a female colleague “sweet baby.”
This leaves us wondering how something like this happens in 2011. Haven’t we reached the point where people realize you can’t talk to co-workers like that? Even if you are an ex-athlete like Gray?
Apparently not.
For more, check out Martin Samuel: Listening to Richard Keys and Andy Gray was like a visit to a 1970s cabaret club
and Laura Williamson: Do me a favour, love … Sky duo’s attack was no joke
Red Right 88 