Pat McAfee Reads Alleged Threat to 'Get Kirked' Live On-Air

Pat McAfee, host of ESPN's "The Pat McAfee Show," read an alleged threat aloud during his program on Monday, causing concern among some viewers. The post, which appeared on X, suggested that it would be a "top 3 moment in the history of mankind" if McAfee were to "get Kirked live on air."

McAfee questioned the meaning of the phrase "get Kirked" during the broadcast. "What does that mean?" he asked, before elaborating on the nature of online commentary. "I think a lot of people are saying a lot of stuff on the internet — like I don’t say things and then they just say, ‘This is what he just said.’ And then people are like, ‘Yeah that is what he just said.’ And it’s like, ‘No I did not just say that. Can we? Please? Maybe?’ … That’s crazy. I hope that doesn’t happen, by the way. And if it does, then I’ll see ya next hour."

McAfee, who was broadcasting live from Los Angeles before covering the Rams-Giants game for "Monday Night Countdown," shared a screenshot of the X post on his own account. The post has since been deleted.

The phrase "get Kirked" appears to reference the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kirk was shot in the neck during an outdoor event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Tyler Robinson, 23, of Utah, was subsequently charged with aggravated murder in connection with the incident. Robinson pleaded not guilty during a court hearing on September 2, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. His next court date is scheduled for October 23.

McAfee, known for his unconventional and boundary-pushing commentary style, has previously been a polarizing figure. He joined ESPN's "College GameDay" in 2022 and brought his talk show to the network's daytime lineup in 2023. He signed an $85 million, five-year contract with ESPN in 2023, and reports from August indicated he was in negotiations for a new deal worth between $60 to $65 million annually.