Channel Nine Faces Backlash Over ‘Disrespectful’ Adam Selwood Gaffe After AFL Legend’s Death
Channel Nine Faces Backlash Over Tribute Error in Tribute to Adam Selwood
Channel Nine has drawn criticism for a major error in its tribute to Adam Selwood, who passed away on Saturday at age 41. The network mistakenly displayed a graphic titled “Tribute for Troy” during coverage of Adam’s passing, confusing him with his twin brother, Troy, who died by suicide just three months prior.
The blunder, which aired during 9News Melbourne, sparked outrage online. Viewers called the mistake “disrespectful” and “incompetent,” with one commenting, “How do you mix up the names during a tribute? This is heartbreaking for the family.”
[Image: Adam Selwood in his West Coast Eagles jersey, with caption: Adam Selwood, a 2006 AFL premiership star, was honored by fans and teammates after his sudden passing.]
Double Grief for the Selwood Family
The Selwood family has endured immense loss this year. Troy, a former Brisbane Lions and Geelong Cats player, died in February. Adam, a beloved West Coast Eagles legend who played 187 games and helped secure the club’s 2006 premiership, was remembered in a moving tribute at the Eagles’ match against St. Kilda on Sunday.
[Image: West Coast Eagles players observing a moment of silence for Adam Selwood before their match.]
Welcome to Country Speech Adds to Confusion
Earlier on Sunday, a separate error occurred during a Welcome to Country ceremony at the Western Bulldogs vs. Essence match. Elder Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin mistakenly referred to Adam as “Troy” in her speech, saying, “We are very saddened by the loss of Troy Selwood.” The slip-up, broadcast nationally, drew mixed reactions, with some criticizing the error and others defending the elder for the emotional challenge of addressing the tragedy.
[Image: Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin speaking at an AFL event, with caption: The Welcome to Country error highlighted the emotional weight of the day.]
Community Rallies Around the Family
Despite the errors, the AFL community united in support. West Coast captain Oscar Allen dedicated the team’s win to Adam, urging, “If you’re struggling, reach out.” Adam had recently raised $25,000 for mental health charity zero2hero and planned a charity event in Troy’s honor.
[Image: Oscar Allen addressing the media, with a quote overlay: “We’ve lost a legend. Our hearts are with the Selwoods.”]
A Call for Sensitivity
The incidents underscore the need for accuracy in sensitive moments. While Channel Nine has not commented, critics emphasized that such errors compound grief. However, many focused on celebrating Adam’s legacy, remembering him as a devoted father, player, and advocate for mental health.
For 24/7 support in Australia, contact Lifeline: 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au. In emergencies, call 000.
[Image: Collage of Adam Selwood’s career highlights, including his 2006 premiership win.]
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