Sam Newman is a retired Australian rules football player, media personality and television presenter.
He was born on December 22, 1945, in Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
Newman played for the Geelong Football Club in the Australian Football League (AFL) from 1964 to 1980, where he was known for his toughness and versatility on the field.
After retiring from football, Newman became a media personality and television presenter, hosting various shows, including The Footy Show on Channel Nine in Melbourne.
He was known for his controversial and often divisive opinions on a range of topics, including race, gender, and politics.
Newman has been involved in several controversies throughout his career, including making offensive comments about Indigenous Australians, women, and transgender people.
He has also been criticized for his behavior towards guests on his shows and for his treatment of colleagues in the media industry.
Despite the controversies, Newman remains a prominent figure in Australian media and is known for his outspoken and often polarizing views.
Sam Newman comments
Newsman stirred controversy by asking Australians to boo the Welcome to Country ceremony at the AFL Grand Final.
The Welcome to Country is a traditional ceremony performed by Indigenous Australians to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land and to pay respect to their elders, past and present.
Newman’s comments have been widely criticized as racist and disrespectful towards Indigenous Australians.
During an interview, Newman stuttered over his words before demanding the interviewer explain “what you think a racist is besides saying me”.
He then asked “Who have I vilified?”
Newman’s comments have been condemned by AFL boss Gillon McLachlan.
His comments have sparked a debate about racism and the treatment of Indigenous Australians in Australia.
Many people have expressed their support for the Welcome to Country ceremony and the importance of acknowledging and respecting Indigenous culture.
The controversy surrounding Newman’s comments highlights the ongoing need for education and awareness about Indigenous issues in Australia.
Sam Newman creates TV history after being nominated for the “Australia’s Greatest Fuckwit” award 25 years in a row
Newman, a staunch opponent of the Yes campaign, encouraged Australians to boo or slow hand clap during WTC ceremonies, particularly at the upcoming AFL grand final pic.twitter.com/BcC2k5w6fq
— Eric Banana (@Banana16Eric) September 20, 2023
How have the people reacted?
The reaction to Newman’s comments has been overwhelmingly negative, with many people expressing their disappointment and anger towards his remarks.
AFL boss Gillon McLachlan defended the Welcome to Country ceremony and condemned Newman’s comments, stating that he would not dignify them with a response.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews fired back at Newman’s call for Australians to boo the Welcome to Country ceremony, stating that it was a “disgraceful” and “offensive” suggestion.
Independent senator Lidia Thorpe criticized Newman’s comments, stating that they were “racist” and “disrespectful” towards Indigenous Australians.
Many people on social media expressed their support for the Welcome to Country ceremony and the importance of acknowledging and respecting Indigenous culture.
Some people also criticized Newman’s lack of understanding of racism and Indigenous issues in Australia.