Outspoken ESPN host Pat McAfee is a fan favorite for his unfiltered opinions. However, like any major media personality, he also faces his share of criticism, especially in the age of social media.
On Tuesday, McAfee revealed the hate he receives by sharing screenshots of negative comments on Instagram. He showed multiple users expressing their dislike for him, with some even claiming they stopped watching ESPN because of his presence.
“I just got done with a little morning workout, it was nice to read those comments,” McAfee said. “I’d just like to let all you old- know, I hate you too.
“Never got along with that class of people. Teachers, principals, you name it. Since I’m a kid. Always hated me. It’s kind of a part of life now.
Since joining ESPN’s College GameDay three years ago, McAfee has injected new energy into the show, but he has some hate groups as well.
“Old white people, and old ESPN people, those are really the people that hate me most at this stage of life,” McAfee said. “I get it, there’s some other groups who have certainly threatened my life on a pretty regular basis.”
“I’d say they hate me, too. But throughout the entirety, old whites and old ESPN people over the last three years have really hated me. That’s who all the producers are of GameDay, too. It’s been a fun run. College football is great.”
McAfee currently has a five-year licensing deal with ESPN worth more than $85 million.
Pat McAfee Gets Internal Support From ESPN
Pat McAfee remains under a five-year deal with ESPN, with three years still left on his contract. However, his time with the network hasn’t been without drama, as he has had public clashes with ESPN staff.
McAfee previously accused former producer Norby Williamson of altering The Pat McAfee Show’s ratings to undermine its success. Despite those issues, ESPN’s president of content, Burke Magnus, expressed strong support for the host’s long-term future with the network.
“For sure, on an ongoing basis beyond the current relationship we have with him,” Magnus said in September. “No doubt about that. One hundred percent. I think his show is hitting on all cylinders. He’s an incredible interviewer and conversationalist. There is a validation for athletes and executives to be on his show.
“Every commissioner wants to be on his show. Every athlete wants to be on the show. There’s a cool factor, a relevance factor. It’s fun and funny and entertaining. As we sit here today, I could not imagine our daytime schedule without his show.”
Meanwhile, Williamson has since departed from ESPN following their dispute.
