Athens, Greece – Popular Greek television presenter Giorgos Liagas is facing disciplinary action from the Hellenic National Council for Radio and Television (ESIEA) following an insensitive report about the home of deceased footballer, George Baldock.
Baldock, a player for Panathinaikos and the Greek national team, tragically passed away at the age of 31 on Thursday, October 10th. He was found unresponsive in the swimming pool of his residence.
Hours after news of the tragedy broke, Liagas, host of the morning show "To Proinono," presented a segment detailing the characteristics of Baldock's home. The report included information about the property's size, rental cost, age, views, garden features, and even the number of bathrooms and type of window frames.
The segment sparked immediate outrage on social media, with viewers expressing disgust at the decision to focus on such trivial details while the football community mourned Baldock's untimely death. Many condemned the report as disrespectful and inhumane, demanding an apology from Liagas and the network.
In response to the backlash, Liagas issued an apology on his personal Instagram account and during Friday's broadcast of "To Proinono." He admitted to making a "grave mistake" and took full responsibility for the insensitive report.
"There are many excuses, but I will not offer any," Liagas stated. "The mistake I made, I take upon myself. It exceeds any excuse. Yesterday, I made a mistake, and I take all the responsibility. I ask that any justified reaction leave out my colleagues and the broader team."
He further acknowledged the hurt caused by his actions, stating that the report should never have aired. He drew a parallel to his own experience following a recent fire at his home, stating that he understood that such tragedies should not be reduced to lifestyle reports.
Despite the apology, ESIEA has taken action, referring Liagas to its disciplinary council. The outcome of the disciplinary hearing remains to be seen.
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