AFL Commentator Kate McCarthy Responds to Vile Online Abuse from Supporter
Channel Seven AFL commentator Kate McCarthy has publicly addressed a disturbing incident involving a so-called 'AFL fan' who produced a video filled with X-rated insults directed at her. The 33-year-old former AFLW star shared the offensive clip on her Instagram account, highlighting the need for greater decorum among sports supporters.
Vicious Attack on Social Media
The abusive video emerged following McCarthy's appearance on Seven's AFL Footy Show, clearly incensing the anonymous creator. Among the vile commentary was mocking of McCarthy's arm tattoos and derogatory references to her appearance, including calling her a 'f*cking mole.'
McCarthy responded with characteristic resilience, posting on Instagram: 'Your favourite tattooed mole checking in! Thank you for all the support this week.' She shared the post alongside Sherele Moody, founder of the Australian Femicide Watch and RED HEART Movement.
Widespread Support from Sports Community
The commentator was quickly inundated with messages of support from across the sports media landscape. Cricket broadcaster Bharat Sundaresan and St Kilda AFLW star Bianca Jakobsson were among those publicly backing McCarthy against the unwarranted attack.
Her Channel Seven colleague Mitch Cleary told critics to 'jog on,' declaring McCarthy one of the code's 'most prominent analysts' in 2025. News Corp journalist Lauren Wood tweeted: 'Death, taxes and some 'men' getting triggered by women in footy. Get 'em Kate.'
Background of Criticism
This incident follows previous backlash McCarthy faced when appointed to prestigious AFL roles. Last September, some football fans lashed out on social media when she was added to the voting panel for the Norm Smith Medal, one of Australian Rules football's highest honours.
Despite her impressive credentials - including All-Australian selection as a player and successful transition to media roles with Channel Seven, the official AFL website, and Triple M - some critics dismissed her appointment as tokenism.
'I'm tired of pretending we are to give her the same respect and gravitas as guys with 300+ games, premierships and awards at the absolute highest level. We do not,' one critic fumed on social media platform X.
McCarthy's Professional Response
Well aware that her Norm Smith panel appointment angered some supporters, McCarthy responded sarcastically at the time: 'Lots of people happy with this one. Couldn't be more proud personally. What an honour.'
AFL Today's Alex Donnelly defended McCarthy's qualifications, stating: 'Imagine being mad at Kate getting this role. As if she isn't one of the better footy minds in media.'
The former Brisbane Lions player had joined an esteemed panel including Adelaide Crows great Andrew McLeod, Hawthorn legend Luke Hodge, three-time Richmond premiership winner Jack Riewoldt, and West Coast's 2018 premiership coach Adam Simpson to decide the best on ground in the Brisbane versus Geelong MCG clash.
Broader Implications for Women in Sports Media
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by women in sports broadcasting and commentary roles. Despite increasing representation, female analysts continue to face disproportionate criticism and abuse compared to their male counterparts.
McCarthy's handling of the situation - addressing the abuse directly while maintaining her professional composure - demonstrates the resilience required for women navigating the often hostile environment of sports media commentary.
