Channel Seven AFL journalist Mitch Cleary has issued a public apology after admitting to kissing a Collingwood staffer during an overseas trip late last year. The incident, which occurred while Cleary was engaged to racing commentator Kate Watts, led to behind-the-scenes efforts by figures in the AFL and media to manage the fallout.
Cleary's apology, posted to social media several days after the story was broken by the Daily Mail, stated: "I am sorry for the hurt and embarrassment I have caused. The kiss was a terrible error in judgement for which I am incredibly sorry and I am dealing with the consequences privately with my family and those closest to me."
The delay in Cleary's public statement and initial efforts by some outlets to downplay the story have drawn criticism, particularly on social media and fan forums. Many users accused parts of the AFL media of hypocrisy, contrasting the restraint shown in Cleary's case with the intense coverage often directed at players for similar or more serious personal matters.
"Mitch Cleary doing the dirty on his pregnant wife? Time to hammer this story non-stop for weeks then yeah? Shoe is on the other foot now," one fan commented online. Another added, "Did any of the footy shows mention Mitch Cleary, or was that conveniently left off the running sheet? Amazing how quickly the moral outrage disappears when it’s one of their own."
Channel Seven itself faced criticism for continuing to feature stories about Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale, whose marital breakdown has been extensively covered by media organizations, while making no mention of Cleary's admission. Critics argued that the media industry's response demonstrated a tendency to shield its own members.
This situation has led to broader discussions about accountability within sports journalism. The article highlights other instances where journalists have faced consequences for their actions, including Fox Sports journalist Tom Morris, who was sacked and later rehired by Seven, and Channel Seven reporter Robert Ovadia, who was fired following allegations of inappropriate workplace behavior. High-profile figures like Paul Kent and James Hooper also faced public repercussions for alcohol-related incidents.
The narrative suggests that in the current social media landscape, where information spreads rapidly and the public is highly attuned to perceived hypocrisy, media organizations risk damaging their own credibility by attempting to protect their own. The article posits that the era of journalists acting as unchecked gatekeepers is over, and the public is quick to call out double standards, even for minor indiscretions.
Cleary, who welcomed his first child in February, is reportedly working through the consequences privately. The article concludes that while Cleary is likely to retain his job and work to rebuild trust, the handling of his situation highlights a need for greater transparency and consistency in how media outlets report on and address the personal conduct of their own staff.