NRL legend Brad Fittler has found himself in hot water once again following an inappropriate on-air comment during Channel 9's coverage of the North Queensland Cowboys' match against South Sydney. The former New South Wales State of Origin captain was forced to issue an apology to Cowboys centre Tom Chester after referring to him as a 'molester' during the broadcast.
The Cowboys secured a 30-18 victory over South Sydney in Townsville on Sunday, cementing their place in the top eight. However, it was a moment in the 50th minute that grabbed the attention of viewers. As the Cowboys played the ball inside their own 10-metre line, the ball was passed through several players before reaching Chester. He dummied and burst through the defensive line, creating a line break that should have led to a certain try. But Chester botched a simple pass, squandering the opportunity.
Fittler's commentary during this play was the source of the controversy. 'Chester the molester – he's blown it!' Fittler exclaimed. The remark immediately drew criticism from viewers, who took to social media to express their disbelief. One user wrote, 'I like Freddy but calling Tom Chester 'Chester the molester' should be a fireable offence.'
Fittler quickly reached out to a Cowboys official after the game to offer an apology, which was passed on to Chester. He then appeared on Channel 9's breakfast show on Monday morning to publicly apologise. 'I've got to send out an apology to Tom Chester,' Fittler said. 'I had a slip up in commentary and I've said my message to the Cowboys already. No hard feelings, I hope.'
This is not the first time Fittler has faced scrutiny for an on-air faux pas. In 2024, he was criticised for an awkward interview with Olympic champion sisters Jess and Noemie Fox. During a Penrith Panthers game, Fittler said to the sisters, 'I'm just waiting for kiss cam to come on… for me. It's not happening.' The interview became even more uncomfortable when it became clear both sisters were unaware they were live on air.
Later that same year, Jess Fox endured a second awkward moment with Fittler. He approached her in the Panthers' rooms after their premiership victory, holding a specially marked Toohey's beer that celebrated the Panthers' four-peat. Fittler offered the beer to Fox, saying, 'Jess, can you take that? You can have that. I'm still working.' Fox refused, forcing Fittler to awkwardly drop the beer on the ground next to her foot. He then attempted to salvage the moment by asking, 'Did you have a good night?' Fox replied, 'Amazing. It's so special to be here and celebrate. It's wonderful for Penrith and I'm so stoked for the whole team.'
