Richard Keys went viral on X, formerly Twitter, for his post regarding the death of Terry Yorath. This drew fierce criticism, with ITV and talkSPORT presenter Laura Woods responding on social media. Keys later called on Woods to treat him with respect after they clashed.
Terry Yorath, a Welsh football icon and Leeds United legend, passed away aged 75 in January. He was the father of Gabby Logan, a well-known sports presenter and television personality. Richard Keys attempted to clarify his remarks after the backlash.
Sad to hear the news of Terry Yorath's passing. He was a warrior and won fans over wherever he played. He was great for us at Coventry and the reason I got Gabby a job at Sky. I had no idea who she was when we met but I knew her dad. RIP Terry. Your daughter did you proud.
This controversy revisits Keys' past at Sky Sports, where he and Andy Gray were compelled to leave after footage emerged of them making sexist comments about assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis. Keys claimed the incident was a 'set-up' orchestrated by 'dark forces' to oust them. Keys has relocated back to the UK after 13 years working for Qatari broadcaster beIN SPORTS.
He and Andy Gray departed for Qatar following their controversial exit from Sky Sports and the UK in 2011. ' Richard Keys acknowledged that he and Andy Gray were bullies and that their conduct antagonised numerous people.
I would never, ever have described a senior member of my profession as a t***. A little bit more respect, please.
What a shame my words for a footballing hero of mine were entirely misinterpreted. Terry Yorath was a fabulous guy. A warrior. My affection for him meant I was more than happy to help him and his family in any way I could. Gabby's career would make any father proud. RIP Terry.
We were bullies. We had to bully our way into the business, and that culture was very much from within. We became bullies as people. That's not an excuse, because today it just wouldn't be tolerated.