Geelong's Bailey Smith Eyes Channel Seven Commentary Role Amid Controversy
Geelong Cats midfielder Bailey Smith, aged 25, is determined to evolve his career beyond the football field, with his sights firmly set on a new venture into sports commentary. The AFL player, often labelled a 'bad boy' due to numerous off-field incidents, is tipped to provide 'special comments' for Channel Seven during the upcoming season. This move could potentially reshape public perception of the controversial figure.
Channel Seven's Confidence in Smith's Football Insight
In a recent statement, Channel Seven expressed enthusiasm about working with Smith, highlighting his deep understanding of the game. 'The whole Seven team really enjoyed working with Bailey at our promo shoot earlier this year,' the network said. 'He has a great footy mind and we are confident viewers would greatly appreciate his views as a current-day player — as they do in his match-day interviews. We look forward to continuing conversations with Bailey regarding appearances on Seven's footy coverage throughout the season.'
Smith himself confirmed his interest in the role during a post-game interview on Thursday night after Geelong's victory over Adelaide. Speaking to Nick Riewoldt and Hamish McLachlan, he stated, 'I'll see how we go. I am keen, I'll put my two cents in. I'll bring my best, I'm looking forward to it.' This opportunity marks a significant step in his professional development, leveraging his on-field experience to offer unique insights to viewers.
A History of Controversy and Public Backlash
Despite his football talent, Smith has frequently found himself at the centre of media storms in recent years. As a Tinder ambassador, his personal life has drawn scrutiny, but more serious incidents have included verbally abusing a photographer and involvement in a Mad Monday controversy last September. These events have cemented his reputation as a magnet for drama within the AFL community.
One particularly contentious episode occurred last year when Smith shared a social media post featuring himself with his middle finger raised alongside teammate Max Holmes, who was dressed as veteran journalist Caroline Wilson. The caption, 'Caro has never looked better,' accompanied by a sexually suggestive emoji, sparked immediate backlash. Although Smith escaped formal punishment from the AFL, Wilson later condemned his actions in a radio interview on 3AW, describing them as 'disgusting and embarrassing.' She criticised both Smith and the Geelong Football Club for their handling of the situation, stating, 'Bailey Smith is gutless, it was disgusting, it was embarrassing. He makes horrible comments about women.'
Further controversy arose during the 2025 off-season when Smith posted a 'Brokeback Mountain' joke on his Instagram story, which was widely criticised as homophobic. Openly bisexual former AFL player Mitch Brown was among those who condemned the post, adding to the ongoing scrutiny of Smith's behaviour.
Potential for Redemption Through Commentary
Smith's move into commentary with Channel Seven represents a pivotal moment in his career, offering a platform to demonstrate his football intelligence and possibly rehabilitate his public image. By providing expert analysis, he aims to shift focus from past controversies to his professional contributions to the sport. This transition could serve as a turning point, allowing fans and critics alike to see a different side of the Geelong midfielder.
As the AFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Smith's performance in the commentary box. His ability to engage viewers with insightful commentary may well determine whether this new role helps to overshadow his tumultuous off-field history. For now, Smith remains committed to evolving both as a player and a media personality, embracing this fresh challenge with characteristic determination.
