Sam Newman has revealed that his close friend Rex Hunt has been admitted to a mental health facility for the second time this year. The AFL legend and fishing TV host entered a care centre in Melbourne's southeast on Friday, according to a report in the Herald Sun.
Newman expressed concern for Hunt's wellbeing, stating: 'It is well documented that I am a friend of Rex Hunt and I worry for his present state of mind.' He urged Hunt to postpone all future engagements and focus on his recovery, saying: 'He should give himself a break from public life and focus on his wellbeing spiritually, physically and mentally.'
Hunt, 74, previously sought treatment for mental health in July. On his podcast, Newman revealed that Hunt had been battling depression. Hunt had earlier opened up about his struggles, attributing his decline to an opioid addiction that began seven years ago after surgery for a neck injury.
Hunt was diagnosed with bipolar depression in 2017 and has spoken candidly about the challenges of living with the condition. 'Mental illness is a nasty word for some, but until it happens to you, I had no idea the ups and downs your mind goes through,' he said.
Hunt is a former VFL player who later became a beloved fishing personality, hosting his own TV show for 14 seasons. Newman concluded: 'He is a very dear friend and we hope he is back up and going soon.'
