AFL Footy Show legend Sam Newman has announced he will leave the show if Channel Nine decides to axe the program in 2019.
In an emotional opening monologue, Newman talked through his career, holding back tears as he revealed it very well could be his final in-studio show before next week’s Grand Final edition.
“So, on the off-chance, listen to those words, on the off-chance this show is not on next year, this is the opportune time to say what I’m about to say because it’s no good doing it next week when the Grand Final show is on, because that’s about revelry and merriment, gaiety and laughing,” Newman said.
“I will not be continuing.
“It’s opportune that I end my association with this show and the network on the off-chance that this is the final show that we do.
“I want to thank you very much for putting up with me or enjoying me.”
WATCH NEWMAN’S SPEECH BELOW
A message from Sam. #9AFLFootyShow pic.twitter.com/MWJsG4xS3R
— The AFL Footy Show (@AFLFootyShow) September 20, 2018
Former Footy Show host Garry Lyon believes Newman deserves a greater send-off next week.
“A fanfare befitting of one of the greatest entertainers we have seen on our screen, where we celebrate him, we go back, we reminisce, we look at all his highs and lows,” Lyon told SEN Breakfast.
Tim Watson thinks Footy Show favourite Trevor Marmalade could return for next week’s program.