AFL content creators Footy Fan Network are facing criticism after a photo of their new show with Kane Cornes leaked on social media. The show has not yet been released but is already attracting attention online for all the wrong reasons.
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The show copies a format popularised by other YouTube channels, centring on a debate with one expert, who appears to be Cornes. Fans were invited to discuss footy topics with the pundit, but the lack of diversity among the cast was quickly pointed out.
Criticism over representation
Critics have been vocal, with many questioning the lack of representation of minority groups, including women. ABC’s Marnie Vinall said, “There isn’t a push for more women’s voices in sport to just tick some box. Women’s voices are interesting, clever, fun and often present very different viewpoints that’s of service to fans/viewers.”
One X user wrote, “You’ve alienated a whole section of the football fan community by only including white men btw.” Another added, “So much diversity, good to see a broad range of people represented, especially good to see the ladies well represented.... oh wait. Was it a requirement to be white, male, and in your 20s to be an attendee? Are they the only people who enjoy AFL?”
A third user commented, “Ah yes the straight white man convention.. that’s definitely all the footy fans that exist.” Another wrote, “Is that ZERO women. Even surrounded has a bit of awareness about filling in demographics.”
Response and next steps
Kane Cornes and the Footy Fan Network have been contacted for comment. The backlash highlights ongoing concerns about diversity in AFL media, with fans calling for more inclusive representation in footy content.
