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NHL announcer SLAMMED for use of 'misogynistic remarks' when describing absence of private life in NHL Bubble
NHL on NBC announcer Mike Milbury has faced a backlash for his on-air words regarding the ongoing life in an NHL 'bubble' in which he noted that there weren't women to 'distract' the ice hockey players from the playoff games.
During the last night's broadcast of the game between the Washington Capitals and the New York Islanders, Milbury was discussing life in the league's temporary quarantine, or 'bubble,' amid the safety protocols put in place to safeguard the sport's return.
And, when responding to the words of his co-host John Forslund, the 68-year-old analyst made a comment about the absence of the athletes' significant others, which was quickly flagged as 'misogynistic' by a large number of Twitter users.
"If you think about it, it's a terrific environment with regard to... if you enjoy playing and enjoy being with your teammates for long periods of time, it's a perfect place," Forslund said during the Islanders' 4-0 win over the Capitals on Thursday.
"Not even any woman here to disrupt your concentration," Millbury shot back, prompting fury on Twitter, as his comment was marked as "sexist" and "demeaning to women" on the platform.
I’m so sick of Milbury having a platform when they are so many other talented people who would actually help this sport & maybe not view women as “a distraction” https://t.co/8vaXu1S8yN
— Jillian Fisher (@FisherJillian) August 21, 2020
I’m not usually one to call for someone’s head, but NBC needs to to get rid of Mike Milbury. Saying something like “and there weren’t even women there to distract them” is insane. It’s 2020 and hockey fans are diversifying. They/we deserve better.
— Alex Chauvancy (@a_chauvancy23) August 21, 2020
Misogyny alive and well in @NHL broadcast booth/bubble. Please don’t tell tell us it’s not what you meant @realmikemilbury. We know exactly what you mean by “Not even any woman here to disrupt your concentration." https://t.co/A7RWI2za7q
— Nicole Kraft (@Nicole_Kraft) August 21, 2020
Although, the reactions have been mixed with many users stating that the words have been taken "out of context."
You are taking this completely out of context. He is implying no distractions from significant others. I knew exactly what he meant. I understand you are obsessed with self worth and the need to be heard but not everything is meant to be offensive.
— PunchNpie (Jordan) (@RealPunchNpie) August 21, 2020
Omg. This is nothing of nothing. We’re not allowed to make silly jokes about pro athletes potentially being distracted women? I’m not a big Milbury fan - trust me! - but this is hardly something to be outraged about.
— Jon Jacobs (@jonj77) August 21, 2020
Oh boy cancel cultures knockin on mike’s door
