Channel Nine sports reporter Danika Mason has found herself at the centre of a viral storm after appearing to slur her words during a live broadcast from the Winter Olympics in Italy. The 34-year-old presenter issued a heartfelt on-air apology on Thursday, admitting she had been drinking before the segment aired on Wednesday morning Australian time.
Chaotic Nightclub Antics Preceded Broadcast Mishap
Just days before the controversial broadcast, Mason was captured on camera enjoying herself at an Italian nightclub during what was described as a "chaotic" live cross last Friday. The Today show star infiltrated the venue with a cameraman, documenting Australians and local Italians enjoying late-night celebrations.
"This is where a lot of the Aussies are celebrating. You wouldn't really read about it, but this is the nightclub," Mason declared as she gleefully entered the establishment, which featured flashing neon lights, pounding music, and even a slide leading down into the main area.
Slides, Shots and Swearing on Live Television
The broadcast took several unexpected turns as Mason handed her microphone to the cameraman and took a dive down the slide, where security guards waited to greet her. As the venue filled with revellers, one German man had to be censored after beginning to swear on live television.
"Oh, I'm not allowed to say that on TV? I'm sorry," he said as Mason pulled the microphone away, laughing. The presenter later announced, "We've got limoncello shots on their way," as she delved into the dancing crowd.
Another scene showed Mason dancing amid a group of people, with a woman gyrating on a table behind her. "How did I end up here? I'm supposed to be doing sport and this is where all the Aussies are. We've got people dancing on tables," she remarked.
The Viral Broadcast That Sparked Controversy
The nightclub antics preceded Mason's now-viral live cross on Wednesday, where she was seen slurring her words while standing outside in a snowstorm at approximately 10pm local time. During sport segments with hosts Karl Stefanovic and Jayne Azzopardi, Mason rambled about the price of coffee and responded to Stefanovic likening her to a frozen iguana.
Full Responsibility and Public Apology
On Thursday, Mason offered a sincere on-air apology for her condition during the broadcast. "And guys, just before we do go, I just want to take a moment if that's okay, just to apologise," she said at the end of her live cross.
"I also wanted to say thank you for everyone who has reached out. I'm okay. Probably just a little bit embarrassed. Look, I totally misjudged a situation. I shouldn't have had a drink. And especially in these conditions. It's cold. We've got altitude. And not having had dinner probably didn't help as well. But I want to take full responsibility. It's not the standard that I set for myself. So in saying that, I am genuinely sorry."
Mixed Reactions from Viewers and Supporters
Viewers have since taken to social media to share their opinions on the incident, with many expressing support for the journalist. One fan commented on Facebook, "Good for her she owned it and fronted up. A quality presenter and reporter."
Another supporter said, "Good on her for being an Aussie and having a drink," while someone else noted, "I love how many times Karl started the morning show hungover and still p***ed, it's called being human."
Further comments included, "Why? She did a great job over there and they had some fun to celebrate our success. Only human and no harm done. Cheers," and "She's the best. What a legend," with some even suggesting she should be the next Prime Minister or crowned Australian of the Year.
The incident has highlighted the challenges faced by broadcasters working in demanding international environments, while also showcasing the public's capacity for forgiveness when mistakes are openly acknowledged and addressed.
