Dannon Yogurt has ended its endorsement deal with Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton after he made a sexist remark to a female reporter during a press conference. The company announced on Thursday that it would no longer work with Newton, citing his comments as 'sexist and disparaging to all women.'
During Wednesday's press conference, Charlotte Observer reporter Jourdan Rodrigue asked Newton a routine question about wide receiver Devin Funchess's routes. Newton responded, 'It's funny to hear a female talk about routes,' before repeating 'it's funny.' Rodrigue later said she felt 'dismayed' and 'belittled' by the exchange.
Dannon's senior director of external communications, Michael Neuwirth, stated: 'We are shocked and disheartened at the behavior and comments of Cam Newton towards Jourdan Rodrigue... It is entirely inconsistent with our commitment to fostering equality and inclusion in every workplace. It's simply not ok to belittle anyone based on gender.' The company has begun pulling existing advertising featuring Newton.
Newton's marketing agent, Carlos Fleming, told ESPN that Dannon has not completely severed ties but confirmed the quarterback would remain under contract without being used. Panthers coach Ron Rivera acknowledged Newton's mistake but declined to comment further, focusing on the team's upcoming game.
Rodrigue revealed on Twitter that she confronted Newton after the press conference, describing the interaction as 'worse.' While Panthers spokesman Steven Drummond claimed Newton expressed regret, Rodrigue stated that Newton did not apologise for his comments.
