Australian sports presenter Danika Mason issued an apology on Thursday after consuming alcohol before a live Channel Nine Winter Olympics broadcast on the Today Show. During the segment, Mason was observed slurring her words and deviating from the planned topic about coffee to discuss iguanas.
Studio host Karl Stefanovic attempted to deflect, suggesting the cold weather could affect speech. Mason stated, "I want to take full responsibility, it's not the standard I set myself. I'm genuinely really sorry." She acknowledged drinking on an empty stomach and said the cold did not help.
In contrast, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese offered his support, saying, "I'm pro-Danika. Good on her. She's over in Italy ... and she would have been tired. It's the time difference. Nothing to see here."