Sam Newman Confirms Relationship with Sue Stanley After Years of Denial
AFL provocateur Sam Newman has confirmed that his long-standing friendship with aerobics royalty Sue Stanley has evolved into a committed relationship, and he could not be more content. The 80-year-old Geelong legend, who once vehemently shut down romance rumours, now openly describes Stanley as his partner after years of companionship that began as what he famously insisted was simply a 'girl friend'.
From Denial to Declaration
Back in 2023, Newman poured cold water on widespread speculation about their relationship status, stating clearly: 'I am very happy to say I am a friend of hers and she is a friend of mine, but that is it.' He emphasised at the time: 'She is a girl friend of mine and that is two separate words: girl friend, not a girlfriend.' Newman added further clarification, saying: 'We are companions and [the dating rumours] is just not true. I am her handbag and that is it.'
These comments came after the pair were repeatedly spotted together at high-profile public events, including a Sport Australia Hall of Fame function where Stanley's decorated sporting career was celebrated once again. Despite the public appearances, Newman maintained a firm stance on their platonic relationship for years.
Stanley's Impressive Sporting Legacy
Sue Stanley, 57, is far more than just a fitness personality. She represented Australia in water skiing at the 1988 Olympics when it was a demonstration sport, later winning multiple aerobics gold medals and being crowned Ms Fitness World Champion in 2000. Her achievements were formally recognised with induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1998 and an OAM award in 2020 for services to sport.
Newman's Own Formidable Career and Personal Tragedies
Newman's sporting résumé is equally impressive, having played 300 games for Geelong between 1964 and 1980 before reinventing himself as one of Australian sports media's most controversial and high-profile figures. Behind the headlines, however, Newman's personal life has been marked by significant tragedy. Married four times, he was left devastated when his fourth wife, Amanda Brown, died suddenly of cardiac arrest in March 2021 at age 50 after two decades together.
Within a year, Newman also lost close friend Shane Warne, a double blow he has previously described as utterly shattering. Now, he says he has found stability and joy again through his deepened relationship with Stanley.
Relationship Deepens Through Travel Adventures
Newman revealed that the relationship with Stanley has strengthened considerably after months spent travelling together around Australia by boat and caravan. 'She is my friend, she is my partner, at this stage I'm happy and you know how relationships are - everything is tickety-boo,' he told News Corp. The extended trips appear to have solidified their bond, with Newman noting: 'I've been away on two extended breaks with her and I'd say if two people can withstand each other at such close quarters for that amount of time, you're through to the semis without dropping a set.'
Newman also confirmed the pair now live together, stating: 'We cohabit. We gave it a fair trial over nine months in a caravan - what could go wrong.' The couple have since stepped out together at major events including the Australian Open and another Sport Australia Hall of Fame legends night, signalling a partnership that is no longer confined to quiet companionship.
Birthday Celebrations and Life Reflections
The couple shared numerous videos from their journeys around Australia by caravan, with Stanley surprising Newman with a classic Lions fruit cake for his milestone 80th birthday in December. 'That's almost as good a birthday present as I've ever received,' he said. 'We wouldn't have enough space for me to make my wishes.'
Turning 80 has prompted considerable reflection from the outspoken broadcaster. 'It is a high number and in football parlance maybe I'm in time on or the start of the last quarter,' he observed. 'But as anyone who gets to that age realises, the most important thing is your health and wellbeing and remaining healthy. That's a very good start.'
