Erin Andrews, the seasoned NFL sideline reporter for Fox Sports, has personally experienced the unsettling impact of fans crossing boundaries. During a recent Buccaneers game, Andrews shared an encounter on her “Calm Down” podcast with Fox colleague Charissa Thompson that left her feeling upset.
Attempting to interview Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, Andrews found herself subjected to a male fan’s disruptive behavior. The fan loudly demanded a picture with her, creating an uncomfortable and dehumanizing experience, as if she were “an animal in a zoo.”
“I was standing — name drop — with Baker Mayfield before the game talking because I haven’t seen him for the past year and as I’m standing there, this guy was like ‘Erin, come over here! I want a picture!’” Andrews said, mimicking the man’s tone.
“Oh my gosh!” Thompson said, to which Andrews continued, “I was just like, ‘Am I an animal in a zoo?’”
While recounting the incident, Andrews revealed that Mayfield, witnessing the situation, humorously tapped her shoulder and remarked, “Have fun with that one.” Mimicking the fan’s persistent plea for a photo, Andrews questioned the appropriateness, emphasizing, “You know what? I want a lot of things, but am I screaming at you?”
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Andrews further disclosed a more distressing encounter on a plane where a fan told her to “smile more.” As the man’s rudeness escalated, Andrews responded with a less-than-friendly retort. Reflecting on the incident, she expressed frustration, noting that such comments wouldn’t be directed at her if she were a man. She asserted her right to not be told to smile, especially when hungry.
Erin Andrews, a former ESPN sideline reporter, joined Fox Sports in 2012 for enhanced opportunities. Her contributions to Fox’s NFL and MLB coverage, as well as major events like the Super Bowl, have solidified her position in the sports broadcasting world. Currently part of Fox’s top NFL team alongside Kevin Burkhardt and Greg Olsen, Andrews looks ahead to potentially working with Tom Brady when he embarks on his broadcasting career.
