The world of sports broadcasting was rocked by controversy recently when Oakland Athletics’ announcer, Thom Brennaman, used a homophobic slur during a live game broadcast. The incident was met with swift backlash and condemnation, leading to Brennaman’s suspension and a broader conversation about the use of derogatory language in sports.
The incident occurred during the first game of a doubleheader between the Reds and Royals on August 19, 2020. Brennaman, who was broadcasting for the Reds, was caught on a hot mic using the slur while unaware that he was on air. The incident was later picked up by viewers and spread quickly on social media.
The backlash was swift, with many fans and fellow broadcasters condemning Brennaman’s language and calling for action to be taken. The Reds quickly issued a statement condemning Brennaman’s language and announcing that he had been suspended from broadcasting duties.
“We are devastated by the horrific, homophobic remark made by Thom Brennaman this evening,” the statement read. “We take this matter extremely seriously and have decided to suspend Thom from doing Reds broadcasts. He was pulled off the air, and effective immediately was suspended from doing Reds broadcasts indefinitely.”
The statement continued, “We will be addressing our broadcasting team in the coming days. In no way does this incident represent our players, coaches, organization, or our fans. We share our sincerest apologies to the LGBTQ+ community in Cincinnati, Kansas City, all across this country, and beyond. The Reds embrace a zero-tolerance policy for bias or discrimination of any kind, and we are truly sorry to anyone who has been offended.”
Brennaman later issued an apology during the broadcast of the second game of the doubleheader, saying, “I made a comment earlier tonight that I guess went out over the air that I am deeply ashamed of. If I have hurt anyone out there, I can’t tell you how much I say from the bottom of my heart that I am so very, very sorry. I pride myself and think of myself as a man of faith.”
Despite his apology, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about the use of derogatory language in sports and the responsibility of broadcasters to uphold standards of professionalism and inclusivity.
Many have pointed to the incident as evidence of a broader culture of intolerance and discrimination in sports, particularly in male-dominated spaces like the locker room and the broadcast booth. The incident also highlights the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in sports, where discrimination and homophobia remain all too common.
In response to the incident, many have called for greater sensitivity training and accountability for broadcasters, as well as greater representation and visibility for LGBTQ+ athletes and fans.
The Athletics have since issued a statement condemning Brennaman’s language and announcing that he would not be returning to the broadcast booth for the remainder of the season. “Thom Brennaman’s comments during Wednesday’s game were reprehensible, and the Oakland Athletics condemn them in the strongest possible terms,” the statement read. “We believe in the power of words and the responsibility that comes with wielding them. We stand with the LGBTQ+ community in solidarity and support, and we are committed to doing our part to fight against hate and intolerance of any kind.”
While the incident has undoubtedly been a setback for inclusivity and progress in sports, many are hopeful that it can serve as a wake-up call for the industry and a catalyst for change. Only time will tell if this hope can be realized, but for now, the conversation around the incident continues to rage on.
