Reds announcer Thom Brennaman suspended after saying homophobic slur on-air
The seasoned broadcaster used the term while commenting on an undisclosed city
Cincinnati Reds announcer Thomas Brennaman has been suspended after using a homophobic term live on-air.
The broadcaster was commentating on a Reds game against the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday when he used the derogatory term to describe a city.
“One of the f** capitals of the world,” Brennaman said.
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He caught himself in the act and apologized for his language, while continuing to call the game–intertwining his apology with details about a home run that just occurred. It appears when he initially made the statement, he didn’t realize his mic was on, TMZ reported.
“I don’t know if I’m gonna be putting on this headset again,” Brennaman said after realizing his statement was heard publicly.
An incriminating video clip went viral with no context as to which city he was referring to with his disparaging statement. The sportscaster proceeded to read a promo for the Reds Live Pregame Show.
Shortly after his volatile remarks were heard on-air, Brennaman was removed and suspended from future broadcasts.
The Reds addressed his offensive outburst in a statement.
“The Cincinnati Reds organization is devastated by the horrific, homophobic remark made this evening by Thom Brennaman,” the Major League Baseball team said. “He was pulled off the air, and effective immediately was suspended from doing Reds broadcasts. We will be addressing our broadcasting team in the coming days.”
Brennaman is a veteran sportscaster, having previously covered the 2007 Fiesta Bowl, the 2008 Sugar Bowl, the 2011 Pro Bowl and more. He followed in the footsteps of his father, Marty Brennaman, who is a former Cincinnati Reds radio sportscaster.
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After working for the Reds since 2006, Thom’s actions ended his long-standing role with the team. He later apologized through his media rep.
“I would like to sincerely apologize for the inappropriate comments I made during last night’s telecast. I made a terrible mistake. To the LGBTQ community, and all people I have hurt or offended, from the bottom of my heart, I am truly sorry. I respectfully ask for your grace and forgiveness,” said Thom to the Washington Post.
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