Charissa Thompson, a host for Fox Sports and Amazon, faced backlash after admitting on a podcast that she would “make up” sideline reports during NFL games when coaches didn’t provide information.
She later clarified on Instagram that she did not fabricate quotes but rather used her observations to create reports.
However, her comments drew criticism from fellow reporters who emphasized the importance of trust and credibility in journalism.
Charissa Thompson confesses she makes up sideline reports pic.twitter.com/vEZOecPTXo
— The Famous Man (@famousnbamilz) November 16, 2023
Some called her actions unethical and harmful to the profession.
“Working in the media I understand how important words are and I chose wrong words to describe the situation. I’m sorry. I have never lied about anything or been unethical during my time as a sports broadcaster,” wrote the reporter to her followers on Instagram.
And claimed, “In the absence of a coach providing any information that could further my report I would use information that I learned and saw during the first half to create my report.”
“For example if a team was 0 for 7 on third down, that would clearly be an area they need to improve on in the second half. In these instances I never attributed anything said to a player or coach,” insisted Thompson.
Thompson’s post comes after receiving backlash for admitting to occasionally fabricating her sideline report.
“I would make up the report sometimes because, A, the coach wouldn’t come out at halftime or it was too late and I was like, I didn’t want to screw up the report, so I was like, ‘I’m just gonna make this up,’” said Thompson.
Despite her clarification, the incident sparked widespread condemnation and raised questions about journalistic integrity.
ESPN’s Lisa Salters critiized Thompson on social media, describing herself as “shocked, disappointed and disgusted” by Thompson revealing that parts of past reports were fabricated.
“Trust and credibility, the “Monday Night Footbal” host continued.
“They mean everything to a journalist. To violate either one — in any way — not only makes a mockery of the profession, but is a disservice to players, coaches and, most importantly, to fans,” added Salters.
Chris Kirschner from The Atlantic also chimed in with his criticism of Thompson.
“A good portion of the public doesn’t trust the media as is,” explained Kirschner.
“I cannot believe she would proudly admit this,” he said in disbelief.
Kirschner suggests that Thompson should not be able to work as a sports reporter any longer.
“This causes significant harm to the people who actually take the job seriously. It’s entirely unethical and worthy of never working in the field again,” insisted Kirschner.
Thompson concluded her post giving praise to her sideline reporter colleagues.
Thompson wrote, “I have nothing but respect for sideline reporters and for the tireless work they put in behind the scenes and on the field,”
Adding, “I am only appreciative and humbled to work alongside some of the best in the business and call them some of my best friends.”
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