Weekend Today co-host Michael Atkinson has sparked significant controversy and received widespread online criticism following remarks he made about menstruation during Sunday's broadcast. The incident occurred during a segment discussing International Women's Day, which falls on Sunday, March 8, where guests were talking about efforts to combat period poverty.
Controversial Comments During Sensitive Discussion
The new presenter was engaged in conversation with two guests about important women's issues when the discussion turned to menstrual health. One guest mentioned taking substantial steps to eradicate period poverty, a serious issue affecting many women globally. During this exchange, male guest Gavin appeared uncomfortable, lowering his head as his female partner Louise spoke openly about the subject.
This prompted co-host Michael Atkinson to make questionable remarks directed at Gavin. "Gav, are you all right, mate? You are basically speaking with your body language on behalf of the entire male population," Michael quipped during the live broadcast. He continued with further commentary, stating, "We have got weak stomachs. At the end of the day we are all big sooks. We should get over it... It is confronting at breakfast time."
Co-Host's Immediate Response and Viewer Backlash
Michael's female co-host Alison Piotrowski immediately challenged his perspective, cheekily telling him to "get over it" herself. However, the damage was done, and shocked viewers quickly took to social media platforms to express their disappointment and anger at the presenter's insensitive comments.
One viewer questioned, "Is anyone else watching Today? Why are the hosts laughing about periods and how the male population feels uncomfortable?" Another added, "I was thinking the same thing. It's a real issue, periods are normal for everyone." The timing proved particularly problematic, with a third commenter noting, "Literally International Women's Day," while someone else observed, "Men are uncomfortable talking about a natural bodily function that people have."
Background on the New Presenter
Michael Atkinson was announced as the new co-host of Weekend Today in February, with Channel Nine confirming the Queensland father of three would join Alison Piotrowski on the weekend edition of the popular breakfast program. He joins the team permanently after a summer stint on the desk, bringing his experience from sports broadcasting to the role.
In a statement following his appointment, Atkinson expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I'm excited and proud to be joining the Today family and becoming part of a program that's such a trusted part of Australians' weekends. I grew up in regional Queensland where weekends are about family, sport and catching up on what matters, so this role feels especially meaningful."
He added, "I've always had a passion for sport and the impact it has on our lives, so I'm fortunate to be continuing to host Stan Sport's rugby coverage and my love for live sport, while taking on my new role co-hosting Weekend Today. I'm very lucky to be working alongside such professionals and outstanding people in Ali, Lizzie and Dan, as well as the exceptional team behind the cameras."
Colleague's Support and Ongoing Fallout
Meanwhile, co-host Alison Piotrowski had previously praised her new colleague, expressing her anticipation about working alongside him. The controversy represents a challenging start to Atkinson's permanent role on the weekend program, highlighting the delicate nature of discussing women's health issues on mainstream television.
The incident has sparked broader conversations about how menstrual health is discussed in public forums and the importance of sensitivity when addressing topics that affect half the population. Period poverty remains a significant issue in Australia and globally, with many women struggling to afford essential menstrual products, making the timing of these comments during International Women's Day discussions particularly unfortunate.
