Aug 14, 2013
Female Sports Journalists: Sexism Still a Problem
(Image source: HannahStorm.com / ErinAndrews.com)
BY CHRISTINA HONAN
According to broadcasters Erin Andrews and Hannah Storm, sexism is alive and well in the sports world.
The Hollywood Reporter did a lengthy piece for its Aug. 23 issue highlighting the fact that blatant sexism has been rejected by the industry, but it’s still not easy for women, who often have to deal with everything from name calling to using men’s bathrooms because some sports venues don’t have facilities for women.
Storm talked about not wanting to do interviews in the locker room after games early in her career. She said it took big-time players like Michael Jordan and Warren Moon treating her with respect in the locker room for others to follow suit. (Via ESPN)
In 2010, Storm was famously criticized by Tony Kornheiser for an outfit she wore on air. He called her out for wearing what he described as a too-short “Catholic-school” skirt and a too-tight sweater. ESPN suspended him for the comments. (Via TV Guide)
Erin Andrews told the magazine she was coming up in the industry as the Internet was gaining popularity. She said right off the bat she had to deal with bloggers calling her “Sideline Barbie” and commenting on her dating life or outfits rather than her reporting. (Via KTTV)
Andrews has long dealt with sexism during her career in sports journalism.
Even a quick YouTube search of the reporter’s name reveals not reporting highlights, but videos with names like “Sexiest Sportscaster,” bikini stories, and clips of players grinding on her or trying to kiss her in interviews.
Feministing adds that the sideline reporter position in particular has gotten a lot of heat over the years for its long-standing link to sexist double standards.
“The women who fill the role are selected as much for their physical appearance as their broadcast skills. ... Female sideline reporters generally do not graduate to the broadcast booth or other high level on-camera positions. More often, they are phased out as they age and replaced by younger women.”
NPR caught up with veteran sports journalist Andrea Kremer about the culture of sexism in sports broadcasting. She said she hopes more women will one day graduate to the booth and higher-level positions. (Via NFL Network)
“It just seems that every time one of these issues arises, the questions become: Why are women in sports at all? ... It should be, in my opinion, about what do they contribute to the telelcast.” (Via NPR)
Ultimately, the women interviewed by The Hollywood Reporter say although they have to have thick skins, their field is rewarding, and they hope the tide continues to turn for women in the industry.
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