Former NFL star Michael Strahan drew the ire of fans on social media after his ill-advised actions during the national anthem on Sunday.
The four-time First-Team All-Pro is being slammed for keeping his hands in front of him while “The Star-Spangled Banner” played as FOX broadcast its pregame show from the San Diego Naval Base before Veteran’s Day.
Strahan’s colleagues placed their right hands on their hearts, but the former New York Giants star kept his down, prompting some serious backlash, with viewers and fans urging the network to fire him.
According to the Daily Mail, however, FOX will not punish Strahan over what they believe was “an honest mistake.”
“His peers have his back and understand that he wasn’t making the moment about himself. There isn’t going to be any type of punishment or fine going Michael’s way,” a source told the outlet this week.
“He may address it, but he is weighing his options because he never thought this would have ever been a thing. He knows the man he is, and he almost doesn’t want to address the controversy to give it more life.”
Michael Strahan May Have Already Addressed The Backlash
Strahan did seemingly address the controversy on Monday, taking to Instagram to post a photo of his father, Major Gene W. Strahan, in uniform as he paid tribute to U.S. veterans.
“Thank you to all veterans and active service members who courageously risk their lives to protect us every day,” he wrote. “Your selfless service is beyond measure. Just as I honor my father, I keep all of you in my thoughts each and every day as we would not have the safety and freedoms we cherish without you. Thank You.”
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In addition to his role at FOX, Strahan co-hosts ‘Good Morning America.’ He was not seen on Monday’s show.
