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Sky Sport host Joe Wheeler apologized for doing offensive impersonation of an Asian accent when talking about a Highlanders player live.
Wheeler’s comments came after Friday night’s showdown at Super Rugby Aotearoa between the Highlanders and the Crusaders in Christchurch.
Sky CEO Sophie Moloney said the comments were “very disappointing.”
Sky sport
Joe Wheeler (left) apologized for putting on an offensive accent when talking about a Highlanders player on the air.
Wheeler asked Highlanders first five-eighths Mitchell Hunt about the performance of his Japanese teammate Kazuki Himeno, who starred in their surprise 33-12 win against the defending champions.
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“It was really impressive, wasn’t it? It was really good, ”Wheeler told Hunt.
Soon after, Wheeler apologized on Twitter. Other users described the comments as “embarrassing” and “disgusting”.
“Tonight I was full,” he wrote on Friday night.
He said that he had spoken to Himeno and apologized to him and the Highlanders for their conduct.
“I absolutely accept that this is not the standard expected of the band team.
“Obviously I have some work to do, but I am absolutely committed to doing better,” he said.
In a statement prior to Things, Sky reiterated Wheeler’s apology.
“He absolutely accepts that this is not the standard expected of broadcast equipment,” the statement said.
Supplied
Sky CEO Sophie Moloney said Joe Wheeler’s comments were “very disappointing.”
“Sky is committed to being culturally respectful and we expect the entire crew to do the right thing.”
The broadcaster then issued an updated statement to Things from its CEO on Saturday afternoon.
“The comments that went on the air last night after the Highlanders game were very disappointing,” Moloney said.
“They are not who we are at Sky, and we must do better.
“Joey Wheeler has sincerely apologized and is really very sorry and sorry for his mistake; and we are working closely with Joey and will continue to reinforce what is expected of our entire team.
“We will learn from this and continue to strive to reflect and respect everyone in our community.”
Peter Meecham / Getty Images
Kazuki Himeno starred in the Highlanders in their victory over the Crusaders on Good Friday.
Additionally, Himeno responded to Wheeler’s tweet on Friday night, saying he accepted his apology.
“It’s okay Joe. Let’s enjoy and celebrate our great victory. We are going to land !! “
Wheeler’s apology came after his comments drew swift condemnation on social media.
“Tacky at best, but considering how badly the Asian community is being attacked right now, it’s especially disgusting,” wrote Twitter user Trina Garnett.
“Sky Sport shouldn’t even pay for his flight home, he should have to walk, that’s a shame,” said Twitter user Jaime Pitt-MacKay.
“That’s a straight red, no TMO required,” added another commenter.
Joe Allison / Getty Images
Former rugby player and television commentator Joe Wheeler.
Wheeler, 33, hung up his boots in 2020 after a 12-year professional rugby career and has devoted himself to broadcasting.
The former lock played for his hometown team Tasman, the Crusaders, the Highlanders, the Māori All Blacks and the Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath.
He won a Super Rugby title with the Highlanders in 2015 and last played for them in 2017.
