Controversial football media figure Sam Newman will no longer appear on Channel Nine amid backlash following his latest comments.
Newman has been outspoken on social media and on his podcast regarding the Black Lives Matter movement and the death of George Floyd.
A petition was recently circulated, calling on his employer to sack Newman, who had recently resumed his position on the Sunday Footy Show.
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Newman tweeted on Friday he and the network had agreed to end their decades-long association.
Let’s see how this gets reported. Can’t wait. The 9 network and I have MUTUALLY decided that, in the station’s best interests, I withdraw form appearing on their programs - forthwith. And, for me, the last 35-odd years have been fantastic. Really! @Channel9
— Sam Newman (@Origsmartassam) June 19, 2020
"The 9 network and I have MUTUALLY decided that, in the station’s best interests, I withdraw form appearing on their programs - forthwith," Newman wrote.
"And, for me, the last 35-odd years have been fantastic."
A spokesperson from the network thanked Newman for his contribution to the organisation in a statement.
"We thank Sam for his service with Nine over several decades," the statement rad.
"His contribution to The Footy Show was paramount to the enormous ratings success the show enjoyed over many years.
"Sam was a master at live television and attracted a legion of loyal fans to The Footy Show with his comedic and insightful input. We wish Sam all the best with his future endeavours."
Newman's media career began at the conclusion of a 300-game playing stint with Geelong.
He found himself in the headlines on many occasions for comments made regarding Adam Goodes, Greta Thunberg, Jacinda Ardern and Megan Rapinoe, as well as 'blackface' incident in 1999.
