‘Deeply ashamed’: Sacked AFL reporter Tom Morris says sorry

High profile AFL journalist Tom Morris has released a personal statement after he was sacked by Fox Footy on Friday.

Tom Morris reports on Fox Footy's On The Couch. Photo: Fox Sports.

Fox Footy has confirmed high profile journalist Tom Morris has been sacked.

The reporter was on Thursday stood down by the Fox Sports football network over allegations that he made offensive comments in leaked WhatsApp group videos.

The senior reporter was on Wednesday night verbally attacked by Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge in the post-match media conference that followed the Bulldogs’ loss to the Demons.

However, the decision to terminate his employment is not related to the scandal surrounding the Bulldogs coach, who made an official apology to Morris on Thursday.

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Morris released a personal statement on Twitter on Friday night to make a full apology for his behaviour.

“I would like to unconditionally apologise to everyone for my disgusting and disgraceful comments, which became public yesterday,” he posted on Twitter.

“I am especially sorry to the person involved. No one should ever in any place, or at any time, be spoken about in that way.

“I am deeply ashamed of my behaviour. My comments were hurtful to many and I will now take the time to listen, learn and work to improve myself, ensuring I become a better person. I am truly sorry to everyone.”

pic.twitter.com/Aoh73V9OWI

— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) March 18, 2022

Fox Sports executive director Steve Crawley earlier confirmed in a statement Morris was no longer an employee of the network.

“Our culture at Fox Sports is based on a respectful, inclusive environment and a fair go for all,” he said.

“While Tom’s journalism has made a valuable contribution to Fox Sports over the past seven years, the message we became aware of yesterday crossed the line. It was unacceptable.

“We have the best in the business working at Fox Sports. We love what we do, and we have a reputation as a great place to work. The bottom line is we are committed to a work environment where everyone can come to work in the knowledge they are safe, respected and valued. We have zero-tolerance for anything less than that.”

Fox Footy host Tom Morris.

Fox Footy released a statement on Thursday night confirming Morris had been stood down pending an investigation into the accusations of inappropriate comments made in leaked audio posted in a private WhatsApp group.

“Fox Sports has stood down a reporter pending an investigation regarding an inappropriate audio recording,” a Fox Sports spokesperson said.

“While it is not appropriate to comment further, Fox Sports is committed to a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected and valued.”

One video that was widely circulated on social media showed Morris allegedly making derogatory comments about a female colleague.

A second video is also spreading on social media.